President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday extended warm felicitations to Vice President Kashim Shettima as he clocked 59, describing him as a “trusted ally” whose loyalty, competence, and resilience have been vital to the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
In a personal message released in Abuja, Tinubu praised Shettima’s courage, sense of duty, and consistency in public service. “Today presents another opportunity to celebrate you, my brother, co-traveller, and Vice President. Your courage, tenacity, and unwavering belief in Nigeria’s greatness have remained unshaken,” the President said.
Tinubu reflected on his decision to choose Shettima as running mate in 2022, noting that his choice was based on competence, leadership experience, and proven commitment to service. “Every day as Vice President, you have justified that choice by strengthening our work and bringing fresh perspectives,” he added.
The President also commended Shettima’s political trajectory, from serving as Governor of Borno State for eight years during a turbulent period of insurgency, to representing Borno Central in the Senate before assuming the Vice Presidency.
“Leadership is service, not privilege,” Tinubu remarked, while emphasizing that Shettima’s performance has shown consistency even in the face of challenges.
The President further underlined their joint progress on the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said is beginning to yield visible results in food security, investment reforms, global partnerships, and social infrastructure.
ALSO READ: Tinubu says Nigeria ready to do business with Colombia
He assured Nigerians that their partnership will continue to drive meaningful progress in the coming years.
Beyond governance, Tinubu noted that his relationship with Shettima has come to symbolize unity across regions and traditions, sending a message that collaboration is possible in Nigeria’s diverse political space. “Our relationship transcends official duties. It is a bridge across regions and traditions, united in purpose and service,” he said.
Tinubu’s warm tribute to Shettima comes against the backdrop of Nigeria’s complex history with presidential-vice presidential dynamics.
One of the most prominent examples was the relationship between President Olusegun Obasanjo and Vice President Atiku Abubakar from 1999 to 2007.
While their partnership began on a strong footing, disagreements over succession and party politics later strained their bond, leading to public confrontations that reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape.
By contrast, Tinubu’s message underscores his administration’s effort to project unity and stability between the President and his deputy. Political observers note that the tone of harmony between Tinubu and Shettima is significant, especially as Nigeria has often witnessed tensions in such relationships.
As Shettima marks his 59th birthday, Tinubu expressed hope that their partnership will continue to deliver dividends of democracy through schools, hospitals, jobs, and improved living standards. He prayed for Shettima’s continued strength, wisdom, and years of impactful service to the nation.
“Shettima reminds us of what is possible when Nigeria comes first—an example worthy of emulation by those who aspire to lead,” Tinubu concluded.
NAN
