Celebrating Kashim Shettima at 59
By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo, anipr
Birthday, is a day of joy and reflection. It gives one the opportunity to express gratitude to Almighty God and to cogitate on the journey of one’s life.
Today is another special day for Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima.I refer to him most often as a vice president with eloquent disposition as he is highly cerebral and has mastered his oratory skill.
Life is progressing with or without the delusional tendencies of not achieving one’s goals. But if one can reflect simultaneously, one won’t slip away from showing gratitude to his or her Creator.Growing graciously is a special gift ,so the Vice President should rejoice.
Shettima is known for resilience, pragmatism and Patience.He has been a strong pillar for the Tinubu administration. Those Political statements/jabs during the campaign gave bite and life to Tinubu’s campaign team.
As 2027 political permutations and analysis are dominating national political discourse some commentators are insinuating the replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima by President Tinubu with another person.Personally, I don’t believe in the insinuation, because it is a mere rumour that wouldn’t come to reality.It is imperative to say that dropping Shettima may signify wrong political calculation as many have forecasted. Besides, the President’s birthday wishes to Shettima didn’t portend any animosity between the two, but unraveled the friendliest relationship between them.In fact,Mr President asserted that he did not make a mistake in choosing him as vice president and that they would continue to work together.
Here is part of Mr President’s message to the Vice President Kashim Shettima on the occasion of his birthday…”However, your service to Nigeria, fueled by your passion for democracy, good governance, and economic development, has been even more remarkable.
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.
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.
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.”
No matter the intrigues and rumours Mr President and Kashim should continue to work closely for the good of the administration and the country.
Let me end this birthday piece with the words of International Public Relations Expert, Yushau Shuaib when he wrote about The Politics And Tinubu’s Wishes To Shettima “As I extend my own birthday wishes to Vice President Shettima,I also hope this moment marks the beginning of a renewed partnership-one that reflects the spirit of national cohesion and shared purpose that Nigeria so desperately needs.Because in a country as fragile as Nigeria, unity at the highest level is not just desirable–it is indispensable.
Happy birthday Mr Vice President. More excellent years ahead, sir
AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo, anipr is a Public Affairs Analyst and member of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations
abdurraheemsaaddembo@gmail.com
