Shettima at 59: Vice President Reaffirms Loyalty to Tinubu as Leaders Shower Praises

Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday reaffirmed his unwavering bond with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging that their relationship, rooted in loyalty and service, would not be taken for granted. The Vice President, who marked his 59th birthday in Abuja, described President Tinubu’s goodwill message as profoundly moving, stressing that the feelings were mutual.

“The bond we share, anchored in loyalty and service, is one I will never take for granted. I have watched you shoulder the burden of difficult choices at critical moments, steering our nation through turbulent waters into a harbour of stability that promises abundance,” Shettima declared.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside the President under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he described as both an honour and a lifelong lesson in courage and statesmanship.

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A Vice President’s Gratitude

The Vice President also extended appreciation to First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, governors, lawmakers, cabinet members, traditional and religious leaders, community figures, and citizens who sent prayers and messages of goodwill. Reflecting on their words, Shettima said he felt renewed in spirit and committed to Nigeria’s future.

“As I meditate on these tokens of goodwill, I am renewed in purpose and fortified in spirit. I remain convinced, as does Mr. President, that Nigeria’s greatest days are ahead of us. With unity of will, clarity of vision, and fidelity to our shared aspirations, we shall overcome our trials and bequeath to coming generations a nation that is secure, prosperous, and just,” he said.

Tributes from Political Leaders

Across the country, eminent Nigerians poured encomiums on the Vice President, praising his humility, courage, and loyalty.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, in a statement through his media aide, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, described Shettima as an experienced politician and an excellent administrator. He recalled Shettima’s early career as a banker, his leadership as two-term governor of Borno State, and his tenure as a senator before becoming Vice President.

Abbas highlighted Shettima’s role in unifying diverse groups and driving economic reforms, noting that he has remained a strong pillar within the ruling APC. “The Vice President has continued to foster unity across divides and remains a stabilising force in the Tinubu administration,” Abbas said.

Governors Applaud Shettima’s Leadership

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, described Shettima as a fountain of wisdom and a strategic thinker. According to him, the Vice President’s compassion, humility, and generosity have distinguished his leadership across various roles.

From his years in the private sector to his stewardship in Borno and now as Nigeria’s Vice President, Mutfwang said Shettima’s impact on lives has been remarkable. “He has consistently demonstrated loyalty and commitment to building a strong, productive, and resilient Nigeria,” he added.

In Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State praised Shettima’s humility, courage, and deep loyalty, noting that these qualities set him apart among Nigeria’s leaders. “The Vice President is a dependable leader and a true friend of Kogi. He has stood by us in moments of celebration and in difficult times, offering strength and support,” Ododo said.

Ministers, Agencies, and APC Chieftains Join in Praise

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, hailed Shettima as a cerebral leader with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Describing him as “a special breed amongst his peers,” Keyamo said the Vice President is a quality addition and invaluable asset to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) also lauded Shettima, calling him the most pilgrimage-friendly Vice President in Nigeria’s history. Executive Secretary Bishop Stephen Adegbite said Shettima’s support for both Hajj and Christian pilgrimages has been unmatched. “We appreciate his vibrancy, loyalty, and partnership with the President. His support has been a blessing to the commission and to pilgrims across the country,” Adegbite stated.

Prince Ade Omole, a chieftain of the APC and former Director in the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council, described Shettima as a national treasure and dependable pillar of leadership. Speaking through Mr. Victor Okebunmi, Omole praised Shettima’s vision, courage, and patriotism.

“Vice President Shettima remains a towering symbol of principled leadership and patriotism. Time and again, he has proven that resilience and responsibility are the true measures of leadership. His brilliance and loyalty to the Renewed Hope vision continue to inspire Nigerians,” Omole declared.

Shettima’s Growing Role in National Politics

Analysts say the tributes reflect Shettima’s growing stature within Nigeria’s political landscape. Beyond his loyalty to President Tinubu, the Vice President has been instrumental in bridging political and regional divides, often serving as a voice of moderation in sensitive national debates.

His background as a banker, administrator, governor, and senator gives him a wide range of experience, which many say strengthens his partnership with President Tinubu. The pair have consistently presented a united front, with Shettima often reiterating that his loyalty to the President is total.

At 59, Shettima finds himself at the centre of Nigeria’s quest for stability and growth. His message of gratitude and reaffirmation of loyalty underscores not only his bond with President Tinubu but also his broader commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s 59th birthday was marked not just by celebrations, but by a reaffirmation of loyalty, service, and vision. From the President’s touching message to the widespread tributes from governors, ministers, lawmakers, and institutions, the day reflected Shettima’s stature as a leader of depth and conviction.

As Nigeria continues to navigate economic and political challenges, Shettima’s role as a loyal partner to Tinubu and a unifying figure across divides will remain pivotal. His assurance that Nigeria’s greatest days are ahead provides hope that the Renewed Hope Agenda can indeed deliver the stability and prosperity that citizens desire.