In the realm of Nigerian politics, a new pattern is emerging for occupants of the office of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. While our outgoing Vice President is a respected professor of law and a senior advocate of Nigeria, the incoming Vice President is a highly cerebral and cosmopolitan intellectual who has left a trail of excellence in every role he has held. His name is Kashim Shettima, and he is set to bring a fresh perspective to Nigeria’s leadership.
Before assuming the position of the executive governor of Borno State, Mr Shettima had served as a commissioner in various ministries, including finance in 2007, local government & chieftaincy affairs in 2009, education in 2010, and agriculture in 2011. Born in Maiduguri, Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima represents a clear departure from the stereotypical impressions of the Nigerian politician.
An Agricultural Economist by training and a seasoned banker by profession, Kashim Shettima blazed a trail in the banking sector before heeding the call of public service and delving into politics. His impressive career trajectory showcases his commitment to excellence and his dedication to making a difference in the lives of Nigerians.
During his tenure as the governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima demonstrated his inclusive leadership style by surrounding himself with a diverse mix of talents from the Southeast, South-South, and Southwest regions of the country. This approach is reminiscent of his principal, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose two-term governorship in Lagos State was marked by a distinct blend of capable talents from all corners of Nigeria.
Despite inheriting a precarious security situation in 2011, Shettima rose to the challenge by establishing the infamous Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), a group of youth volunteers who have played a significant role in supporting military efforts in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram insurgents in the state. With intellectual sagacity and patriotic courage, Kashim Shettima remains one of the few notable residents of Maiduguri who refused to relocate to Abuja, even when the state capital became vulnerable to insurgent attacks.
He has been a constant figure at the forefront of the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and resettlement of victims of insurgency in Borno State. His efforts include providing educational infrastructure for over 50,000 unaccompanied orphans and victims of the insurgency across the 27 local government areas of the state. In many ways, Kashim Shettima can be described as the first ‘war-time’ governor since our young democracy was born in 1999. For eight years, he maintained governance and delivered public projects and services despite the constant barrage of attacks from Boko Haram insurgents.
The resonance between Kashim Shettima and his principal, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is evident. They have both built their political and performance credibility where several of their contemporaries have failed. As Nigeria’s new Vice President, Shettima brings with him a wealth of experience, a passion for public service, and a deep commitment to the well-being of Nigerians.
His journey of national governance is one that fills Nigerians with hope and anticipation. As we embark on this new chapter, we can only wish Kashim Shettima much success in his role as Vice President. His intellectual acumen, leadership qualities, and dedication to the Nigerian people make him a promising addition to the nation’s leadership.
With Shettima on board, a new Nigeria is within reach. It is a Nigeria where inclusivity, good governance, and sustainable development are not just buzzwords, but tangible realities. Together, we can work towards building a nation that we can all be proud of—a Nigeria that embraces diversity, upholds the rule of law, and provides equal opportunities for all its citizens.
Kashim Shettima’s ascent to the position of Vice President is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and a strong vision for a better Nigeria. As Nigerians, we have every reason to be optimistic about the future, for with leaders like Shettima, the path to progress becomes clearer. Let us join hands and support him in this journey towards a new Nigeria, where the dreams of every citizen can be realised.
