By Charles Edet Esq, PhD
President Bola Tinubu recently celebrated Vice President Kashim Shettima’s 59th birthday, praising his loyalty, partnership, and dedication to building a better Nigeria. Tinubu described Shettima as a trusted ally in their shared mission of national renewal, highlighting his competence, leadership, and consistency in service. In his birthday message, Tinubu expressed heartfelt felicitations to Shettima, saying, “I deeply appreciate your vibrancy, loyalty, partnership, and support as my deputy.” He lauded Shettima’s political journey from Governor of Borno to Senator, commending his service in the face of challenges.
The President’s wife, Oluremi Tinubu, also joined in celebrating Shettima’s birthday, sending warm wishes and prayers to the Vice President. Shettima expressed gratitude for her kind words, describing her as “our beloved mother of the nation”.
The eulogies by the President, his wife, and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, are a glaring demonstration of reinforcing the unity and love that powered their election success in 2023. Several Nigerians are happy that both have realigned to end the ugly rumours making the rounds that the President and his Vice are at enmity, which has been debunked by the birthday event. This display of unity is expected to calm the North in general and lend their support to Tinubu-Shettima in their 2027 drive.
Senator Godswill Akpabio has also praised Shettima, describing him as a stabilizer in Tinubu’s government. This sentiment underscores Shettima’s crucial role in supporting Tinubu’s administration and ensuring its stability. Shettima responded to Tinubu’s birthday message, expressing gratitude for the President’s kind words and prayers. He said, “The bond we share, anchored in loyalty and service, is one I will never take for granted.” Shettima also commended Tinubu’s visionary leadership, stating that serving alongside him has been an honor and a lifelong lesson.
The strong partnership between Tinubu and Shettima has sparked speculation about a potential 2027 continuity. With Shettima’s loyalty and dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda, it’s clear that he plays a vital role in Tinubu’s administration. As the President looks to the future, it’s likely that Shettima will remain a key partner in shaping Nigeria’s destiny. The partnership between Tinubu and Shettima has been instrumental in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at delivering tangible dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
