Vice-President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria has moved beyond the most difficult phase of the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, expressing optimism that a renewed mandate in 2027 would usher in greater prosperity for Nigerians.

Shettima made the remarks on Monday in Calabar, Cross River State, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally, where he called on Nigerians to support the re-election of Tinubu, Governor Bassey Otu and other APC candidates in the 2027 general elections.

According to the Vice-President, the administration has completed the most challenging part of its economic restructuring programme, arguing that the sacrifices associated with the reforms have laid the foundation for improved economic conditions.

He described the proposed second term as a period when Nigerians would begin to experience the benefits of the government’s economic policies.

“We are confident of this promise to deliver for this nation because we have already done the most difficult job of economic reset. None of the other options available has the capacity to move the needle of the economy. We have rescued the economy, and the road ahead is one of harvest,” Shettima said.

He added that the next four years would focus on translating the government’s economic interventions into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens, urging voters to renew the mandate of the Tinubu administration.

The Vice-President also highlighted several federal government projects expected to boost economic activities in Cross River State, particularly the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which he said would improve transportation, facilitate the movement of goods and people, expand tourism and attract investment.

He further pointed to the proposed Bakassi Deep Sea Port, saying the project had received federal government approval and support.

According to him, the port could position Cross River as an international maritime gateway, creating employment opportunities, stimulating industrial development and expanding commercial activities.

Shettima also identified the proposed location of the Gulf of Guinea Commission Secretariat in Calabar as another opportunity to strengthen the state’s international profile and attract diplomatic, commercial and tourism-related activities.

On the state’s maritime interests, he said the Federal Government recognised Cross River’s coastal status and was prepared to support efforts towards resolving the dispute involving 46 oil wells.

The Vice-President also highlighted federal education interventions, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he said was helping to expand access to higher education and reduce the financial burden on parents.

He linked the initiative to broader efforts under Project HOPE Education, which focuses on improving foundational learning, teacher development, school management and accountability.

While seeking support for another term, Shettima acknowledged the importance of public scrutiny, insisting that political support should not prevent citizens from demanding accountability from their leaders.

He said the government would remain committed to listening to concerns about economic hardship, addressing neglected communities and correcting shortcomings in public service delivery.

Earlier, APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, urged Cross River residents to support the party in the forthcoming elections, citing ongoing infrastructure and development projects as reasons for backing Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Governor Bassey Otu also expressed support for the President, maintaining that the administration’s policies in agriculture, education, industry and security would deliver greater benefits to Nigerians.

The rally was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, governors Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Monday Okpebholo of Edo and Hope Uzodimma of Imo, alongside other APC leaders and members of the party’s presidential campaign council.

Shettima had earlier visited the palace of the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, where he sought royal blessings and support for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.