Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to come together in support of President Bola Tinubu as he tackles the nation’s pressing sociopolitical, economic, and security issues.
At the launch of Professor Modupe Adelabu’s book, ‘Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria,’ held in Abuja on Thursday, August 15, Shettima reassured attendees that the benefits of the stringent measures currently being taken will soon become apparent.
He stressed the need to shift focus from lamenting past and present hardships to actively seeking solutions to the fundamental issues facing the country. Shettima pointed out that national unity is especially critical given the years of decline preceding President Tinubu’s administration.
The event attracted a distinguished audience, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Chief Bisi Akande, Chief Pius Akinyelure, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and former governors Otunba Adebayo and Kayode Fayemi, alongside lawmakers, traditional leaders, and industry figures—signifying the event’s importance.
Shettima emphasized that during this crucial period, President Tinubu requires the steadfast support of all Nigerians to successfully steer the country towards progress.
He expressed, “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have a leader worthy of our trust. I’m speaking candidly, not politically. I have witnessed the essence of Bola Tinubu, and it is good.”
“He envisions prosperity for the nation and aims to create a lasting legacy. His intentions are not driven by greed but by a desire to leave an imprint on history.”
Shettima recounted his first visit to Tinubu’s residence, expecting grandeur akin to Buckingham Palace, only to find a modest colonial structure in need of renovation. He shared, “There’s nothing extraordinary about that house. My own home in Maiduguri is in better shape.”
Reflecting on their early days in the APC, he recalled a meeting at Tinubu’s home where the president chose a simple meal of gari and groundnut over lavish options. “Is this the monster they’ve painted him to be? No. He’s been consistent in his simplicity.”
Shettima urged Nigerians to rally around Tinubu, noting the bold actions he has taken to address the chaotic economy, one that he acknowledges was partly inherited from the previous administration.
“We cannot shy away from the reality that we were part of the Buhari administration. It’s not about assigning blame but about strategizing solutions for our country’s needs. We are aware of the challenges we face.”
He rejected the political rhetoric from opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar and the “obedient crowd” regarding the withdrawal of fuel subsidies, praising Tinubu for his political courage and decisive actions.
“Giving birth is painful, but it leads to joy once the child arrives. I believe that history will favor this man who has made significant choices, placing our economy on a path to sustainability.”
Shettima highlighted the increase in oil exports and the stabilization of the Naira as signs of progress, while also acknowledging the broader food security challenges exacerbated by security issues in key agricultural regions.
He expressed optimism that Nigerians would soon witness substantial improvements in their circumstances and reiterated the need for collective support for Tinubu.
Additionally, the Vice President addressed the long-standing neglect of basic education in northern Nigeria, linking it to the troubling participation of minors in recent protests. He attributed this trend to weakening family structures and parental authority.
Supporting a proposal from Senator Olubunmi Ajetunmbi, Shettima advocated for the North East and North West Development Commissions to be empowered with state mandates to address the growing crisis of out-of-school children in the region, establishing clear timelines for progress.
While acknowledging the potential of financial autonomy for local councils to enhance basic education, he clarified that governors should not be unfairly blamed for issues related to local council funding.
