VP Shettima unveils HCD 2.0 strategy to boost Nigeria’s Human Capital Index

…inaugurates national council to address climate disasters

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to elevating Nigeria’s global standing on the Human Capital Index (HCI), aiming to position the country among the top 80 nations by focusing on health, education, and workforce development.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Human Capital Development (HCD) 2.0 Strategy in Abuja, Shettima urged policymakers, community leaders, and citizens to work together to achieve the ambitious goals of this initiative.

“Our targets are ambitious but attainable,” said Shettima. “We are committed to improving access to quality healthcare, enhancing educational outcomes, and creating job opportunities that will strengthen resilience in the face of global challenges.”

The Vice President highlighted that in 2018, Nigeria’s low ranking on human capital indices exposed critical gaps in health, education, and employment. In response, the government launched HCD 1.0, laying a foundation for a healthier, more productive Nigeria. Now, with HCD 2.0, Shettima emphasized that the program goes beyond being a policy initiative; it’s a national commitment to the well-being and empowerment of every Nigerian.

The HCD 2.0 Strategy prioritizes equitable healthcare, inclusive education, and financial inclusion. “We envision a healthcare system accessible to all Nigerians, supported by digital health platforms and innovative financing solutions,” Shettima stated. “Our approach to education will foster digital literacy, gender equity, and financial accessibility, aiming to bridge existing gaps.”

Shettima further emphasized the program’s focus on digital transformation, aiming to integrate fintech solutions, online banking, and digital payments into the lives of everyday Nigerians. He also noted the need for a governance framework involving federal and state leaders, the private sector, civil society, and development agencies to ensure the success of HCD 2.0.

Special Adviser on the National Economic Council (NEC) and Climate Change, Rukaiya El-Rufai, presented an overview of the program, highlighting its aim to enhance human capital outcomes by focusing on health, education, and workforce development. “The HCD 2.0 Program is designed to elevate Nigeria’s HCI and equip the nation to face both domestic and global challenges, including climate change and digital transformation,” she said.

El-Rufai emphasized the importance of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) processes to track the initiative’s progress transparently. “We are closing critical gaps in health, education, and labor force participation, promoting inclusivity and sustainability,” she added.

VP Shettima Launches National Council for Climate Disaster Management

In addition to the HCD 2.0 Strategy, Vice President Shettima inaugurated the National Flood, Erosion, Drought, and Desertification Management Council (NFEDDMC) to tackle Nigeria’s escalating climate-related challenges. The council will develop a coordinated response to environmental and climate-induced disasters, collaborating across government agencies and regions.

At the inauguration in Abuja, Shettima stressed the importance of a unified approach to managing natural disasters, which have significantly impacted Nigeria in recent years. “This council will advance disaster management by fostering collaboration and resource-sharing across departments for optimal outcomes,” he stated.

The council’s formation followed recommendations from a roadmap developed by Kogi State Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo under the National Economic Council (NEC). It will be responsible for advising the federal government on disaster management strategies, establishing a national disaster management framework, and increasing public awareness about climate resilience.

Shettima commended Nigeria’s weather prediction agencies for their accurate forecasts and called for continued technological advancement. “Each agency must be ready to respond swiftly, as environmental crises require immediate action,” he said.

The Vice President will chair the council, which includes governors from Kogi, Bayelsa, Oyo, Ebonyi, Bauchi, and Jigawa states, along with officials from various ministries, agencies, and development partners.