President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his confidence in Vice President Kashim Shettima as the latter marks his 59th birthday on Tuesday.
Tinubu declared in a personal statement that he made no mistake in selecting Shettima as his deputy.
President Tinubu praised Shettima’s dedication and performance since they began their partnership in office on May 29, 2023.
“I deeply appreciate your vibrancy, loyalty, partnership, and support as my deputy. In choosing you then as a partner, I selected competence and other qualities that Nigeria could depend on,” Tinubu stated in the birthday message.
According to the president, Shettima has consistently justified his selection as Vice President: “Every day, as Vice President, you have justified that choice by strengthening our work, bringing fresh perspectives, and upholding our commitment to Nigerians. Your dedication reassures me that I did not make a mistake in choosing you as my deputy.”
Tinubu recalled Shettima’s extensive public service record, noting his eight-year tenure as Governor of Borno State and his subsequent service as Senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly.
“You served the people of Borno, your home state, excellently as Governor for eight years and later as Senator representing Borno Central in the National Assembly. In both roles, you showed that leadership is service, not privilege, even in the face of immense challenges,” the president stated.
He further commended Shettima’s resilience during his governorship, which coincided with the deadly Boko Haram insurgency that severely affected Borno State.
Tinubu praised Shettima’s “courage, sense of duty, tenacity, determination, and belief in Nigeria’s greatness” which “have remained unshaken” throughout their partnership.
Tinubu credited the Vice President’s contributions to their progress on the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying “Together, we have begun to lay the foundations of the Renewed Hope Agenda. From securing new global partnerships across the Atlantic to driving food security and investment reforms at home, your partnership has been integral to our success,” he stated.
Tinubu added, “In the months ahead, as we unlock new trade corridors and deliver more schools, hospitals, and jobs, our partnership will continue to yield results that Nigerians can see and feel. We must continue to work towards the full realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which will foster prosperity in the country and enhance the living standards of our people.
“Our relationship transcends official duties. It is a bridge across regions and traditions, united in purpose and service. You remind us of what is possible when Nigeria comes first — an example worthy of emulation by those who aspire to lead.
“On this occasion of your 59th birthday, I heartily wish you renewed vitality, wisdom and more years of impact. Happy birthday, Kashim, and many happy returns!”
Born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, Shettima is Nigeria’s 15th and current Vice President. Before entering politics, he had a successful career in banking, rising to become manager of Zenith Bank’s Maiduguri branch.
