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Tag: Shettima

  • Northern Christian forum hails Tinubu for standing by Shettima

    Northern Christian forum hails Tinubu for standing by Shettima

    The Northern Christian Youth Forum (NCYF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for publicly acknowledging Vice President Kashim Shettima’s loyalty and reaffirming confidence in him ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The group, led by Rev. Pinot Atuluku, said Tinubu’s stance put to rest speculations that Shettima might be dropped from the ticket.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Shettima, Iyabo Masha, on NES fellowship

    It pledged to mobilise 20 million Northern Christian votes in support of the President’s re-election bid.

    NCYF praised Shettima for his role as the most senior political leader from the North, noting his efforts in fostering peace, harmony, and inclusion across religious lines.

  • Vice President Shettima mourns Borno attack victims

    Vice President Shettima mourns Borno attack victims

    • Backs Tinubu’s directive on stronger military operations

    • Troops kill 23 terrorists, rescue 26 kidnap victims in Katsina

    • Abbas decries fresh killings in Kaduna, other states

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the recent terrorist attack in the Darajamal community in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

    During the attack, many civilians and soldiers were killed..

    In a condolence message yesterday in Abuja by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Vice President Shettima described the incident as a national tragedy.

    He said: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the people of Borno State, and the Nigerian military over the tragic loss of our compatriots. These deaths have left the entire nation in collective grief, but we are confident that justice will be served for the bereaved families.”

    The Vice President assured Borno State residents that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, remained determined to defeat terrorism.

    He recalled the President’s directive to the Armed Forces to review current security operations and deploy advanced military hardware and surveillance equipment to strengthen the fight against insurgent groups across the country.

    Shettima also reiterated the government’s consideration of establishing state police, in line with President Tinubu’s position that some security challenges require specialised local units with the knowledge of terrain and culture to effectively safeguard communities.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria’s killer touts

    On Saturday, Governor Zulum visited Darajamal to commiserate with bereaved families over the Friday night assault by Boko Haram fighters.

    Also, Nigerian Army troops have neutralised 23 terrorists and rescued 26 kidnap victims in coordinated operations.

    The Defence Special Operations Force and Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma recorded the feat in Kankara and Matazu local government areas of Katsina State.

    A source at the Army Headquarters in Abuja told The Nation that troops also arrested 14 suspected terrorists and criminals in the Northeast and Northcentral, recovered various weapons and logistics items.

    Also, four members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) surrendered in the Northeast.

    The military source said: “On September 6, troops of the 17 Brigade, in collaboration with the Defence Special Operations Force and Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, conducted a major offensive in Pauwa village, Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State. The joint force made contact with terrorists entrenched on Pauwa Hill, leading to a fierce firefight supported by aerial intelligence and artillery fire.

    “The operation resulted in the neutralisation of 23 terrorists, the rescue of 12 women and 11 children held in captivity, and the recovery of five motorcycles, spare parts, food supplies, and other logistics, which were destroyed in the situation.

    “In Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State, troops on patrol rescued three kidnapped locals after engaging fleeing terrorists near Shaiskawa village.”

    In Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, troops of the 19 Brigade arrested a suspected terrorist logistics supplier attempting to transport items from Cross Kauwa to Dawoshi village. They recovered a mobile phone, a wristwatch, ₦55,000 in cash, and other items, while the suspect remains in custody for further investigation.

    The military source added: “On September 6, four family members of ISWAP/JAS terrorists, comprising two women and two children, surrendered to troops of the 192 Battalion in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. Preliminary investigation revealed they fled from Lekshe village and are currently in custody for further profiling.

    “In another development on September 7, troops of 232 Battalion raided a criminal hideout in Muva village, Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State. The operation led to the arrest of five suspected thieves and drug peddlers, who have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police for prosecution.”

    In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the military source said, troops of 102 Guards Battalion at Dei-Dei Quick Response Group arrested three suspects involved in phone snatching and other criminal activities around Dei-Dei, Dakwa, and Zuba areas, and recovered four mobile phones and a smart watch.

    “The suspects have been handed over to the police for further action,” the source added.

    Also, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen has decried the attacks in Kaduna, Borno, Katsina, Plateau, Kwara, and other states at the weekend.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja, in Abuja, Abbas described the killings as gruesome and unfortunate.

    He urged the security forces to take decisive action against criminals and criminality across the country.

    Abbas warned of the implications of insecurity to the socioeconomic stability of the country.

  • Shettima mourns Borno attack victims, backs Tinubu’s directive on stronger military operations

    Shettima mourns Borno attack victims, backs Tinubu’s directive on stronger military operations

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the recent terrorist attack in Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, where many lives, including those of civilians and soldiers, were lost.

    In a condolence message on Monday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima described the incident as a national tragedy, saying the killings had thrown the entire country into mourning.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the people of Borno State, and the Nigerian military over the tragic loss of our compatriots. These deaths have left the entire nation in collective grief, but we are confident that justice will be served for the bereaved families,” Shettima said.

    The Vice President assured residents that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, is determined to defeat terrorism. 

    He recalled the President’s directive to the Armed Forces to review current security operations and deploy advanced military hardware and surveillance equipment to strengthen the fight against insurgent groups across the country.

    Shettima also reiterated the government’s consideration of establishing state police, in line with President Tinubu’s position that some security challenges require specialised local units with knowledge of terrain and culture to effectively safeguard communities.

    Borno Governor Babagana l Zulum on Saturday visited Darajamal to commiserate with bereaved families following Friday night’s assault by Boko Haram fighters. 

    The Vice President joined in offering prayers for the repose of the victims’ souls and assured the people of Borno of the administration’s continued support in restoring peace and stability.

  • Tinubu congratulates Shettima, Iyabo Masha, on NES fellowship

    Tinubu congratulates Shettima, Iyabo Masha, on NES fellowship

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima and other eminent Nigerians on their conferment as Fellows of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), describing the honour as a well-deserved recognition of their immense contributions to the nation’s economic thought, policy, and development.

    In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President said the conferment, which will take place tomorrow (Monday), September 8, is a tribute to the honourees’ dedication to national service and intellectual excellence.

    “Your recognition is a testament to your exemplary service, intellectual depth, and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation,” President Tinubu said.

    Read Also: Gabonese referee Atcho for South Africa-Nigeria match

    The President paid glowing tribute to Vice President Shettima, lauding his role in driving the government’s reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    “I commend Vice President Kashim Shettima for his visionary leadership, deep insights, and relentless dedication to implementing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in driving inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development,” he stated.

    He also hailed Dr. Iyabo Masha, renowned economist and current Director of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four on International Monetary Affairs and Development (G-24), for her outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s economic policy. 

    Dr. Masha, who served on the Presidential Economic Advisory Council between 2019 and 2022, will also be decorated as a Fellow at the NES event.

    “As a nation, we are proud of your achievements and the example you set for current and future generations.

    “Your passion, innovation, and service to the nation’s economic progress embody the spirit of excellence that our administration celebrates and upholds”, the President declared. 

    President Tinubu further assured the new Fellows of his administration’s unwavering commitment to work with experts and institutions to strengthen Nigeria’s economy. 

  • Shettima: Tinubu committed to diversifying economy

    Shettima: Tinubu committed to diversifying economy

    • Fed Govt mulls task team on good architecture

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to diversifying the economy for the benefits of all and sundry.

    The Vice President described the President as a leader with the political will to take bold decisions.

    Shettima spoke yesterday at the State House in Abuja while hosting a delegation of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), led by its President, Prof. Adeola Adenikinju.

    He cited President Tinubu’s recent state visit to Brazil, where five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed in aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and agriculture, as deliberate steps to broaden Nigeria’s economic base.

    “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have an ally, a friend who grew up in the same ecosystem as you, who speaks your language of business and commerce, who understands the economic terrain, and most importantly, who has the political courage,” the Vice President said.

    A statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, quoted Shettima as saying Nigeria, with its youthful population and intellectual talent, is uniquely positioned to turn its demographic advantage into global dividends.

    The Vice President urged the NES to deepen its partnership with government in shaping policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He stressed that the administration remained open to the society’s perspectives and evidence-based advisory.

    Adenikinju described President Tinubu’s economic reforms as bold and profound, pledging his organisation’s support for the administration’s policies.

    The NES president announced plans to honour Shettima with the society’s highest award, Fellow of the Nigerian Economic Society (FNES), during its national conference on September 9 in Abuja.

    Read Also: Court jails fake investor for $71,000 fraud

    The NES delegation included former President of the society, Prof. Sarah Anyanwu, and other council members.

    Also, the Federal Government is considering the creation of a presidential task team to conceptualise and operationalise good architecture in the country.

    Vice President Shettima announced this when he hosted a delegation of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), led by its President, Mobolaji Adealo Adeniyi. During the visit, the institute named Shettima as Nigeria’s “Champion of Good Architecture” in recognition of his role in elevating design as a national priority.

    Responding, Shettima assured the delegation of government’s full support, praising Nigeria’s architectural professionals as vital to nation-building.

    “We have more than 10,000 architects in this country with the experience and exposure to add value. Together, we can make this country a great nation. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us,” he said.

    Adeniyi highlighted the role of architecture in promoting societal progress and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

    She listed some sectoral challenges, includ ing poor compliance with design standards, reliance on imported materials, and limited local expertise for advanced construction, as the constraints in the sector.

    The NIA president warmly invited the Vice President to the institute’s 65th Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for November 26, where he will be conferred with an Honorary Fellowship of the NIA.

    The NIA delegation noted that good architecture, beyond physical structures, represents cultural values, social identity, and the aspirations of Nigerians, serving as a bridge between vision and reality.

  • Tinubu committed to diversifying economy, Shettima assures

    Tinubu committed to diversifying economy, Shettima assures

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in his commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s economy, describing him as a leader with the political will to take bold decisions.

    Shettima gave the assurance on Thursday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), led by its President, Prof. Adeola Adenikinju.

    He cited President Tinubu’s recent state visit to Brazil, where five Memoranda of Understanding were signed in aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and agriculture, as deliberate steps to broaden Nigeria’s economic base.

    Read Also: FCT police investigate fatal Mabushi crash linked to ‘agberos’

    “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have an ally, a friend who grew up in the same ecosystem as you, who speaks your language of business and commerce, who understands the economic terrain, and most importantly, who has the political courage,” the Vice President said.

    According to a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said Nigeria, with its youthful population and intellectual talent, was uniquely positioned to turn its demographic advantage into global dividends.

    He urged the NES to deepen its partnership with government in shaping policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that the administration remained open to the society’s perspectives and evidence-based advisory.

    Adenikinju commended Tinubu’s economic reforms as bold and profound, pledging NES’s support for the administration’s policies.

    He also announced plans to honour Vice President Shettima with the society’s highest award, Fellow of the Nigerian Economic Society (FNES), during its national conference on September 9 in Abuja.

  • PBAT door-to-door movement hails Shettima at 59

    PBAT door-to-door movement hails Shettima at 59

    The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, led by High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Alias Tompolo), has felicitated with Vice President Kashim Shettima on his birthday.

    The group in a statement by Activist Sunday Adekanbi Asuku, National Coordinator, PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, praised the Vice President’s unwavering loyalty, commitment, and dedication to the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He also commended his humility, resilience, and patriotic zeal, which continue to inspire Nigerians, especially the youth.

    The statement read: “PBAT Door-to-Door Movement Felicitates with Sen.Kashim Shettima Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria GCON on His Birthday.

    Read Also: Shettima to Tinubu: I won’t take my bond with you for granted

    “The leadership and members of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, under the Grand leadership of High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Alias Tompolo) heartily felicitate with His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the occasion of his birthday.

    “On this special day, we join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a visionary leader whose unwavering loyalty, steadfast commitment, and selfless dedication have remained a pillar of strength to the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “Your Excellency, your humility, resilience, and patriotic zeal continue to inspire Nigerians, especially the youth, towards service, nation-building, and faith in the Nigerian project.

    “We pray that Almighty God grants you many more years in good health, wisdom, and strength as you continue to contribute to the growth and progress of our dear nation,” the statement read.

  • Tinubu firmly devoted to security, stability in Gulf of Guinea – Shettima

    Tinubu firmly devoted to security, stability in Gulf of Guinea – Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strong commitment to ensuring peace, security, and stability in the Gulf of Guinea, pledging Nigeria’s full support for ongoing reforms within the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC).

    Shettima made this known on Tuesday when he received the Executive Secretary of the GGC, Mr. Jose Mba Abeso, and his team on a courtesy visit to the State House, Abuja.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I reaffirm Nigeria’s strong commitment to the objectives of the GGC. 

    “Nobody can undermine the role of the Commission in fostering cooperation, peace, and sustainable development in the Gulf of Guinea,” the Vice President declared.

    Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic role in the region, Shettima stressed that the country would continue to champion collaborative efforts under the African Union’s 2050 Integrated Maritime Strategy, which aims to secure Africa’s vast maritime domain.

    “As Africa’s most populous nation and unarguably the largest economy, we have interests to protect, promote, project, and preserve in the Gulf of Guinea. Be reassured that some of the issues you have raised, the President will give them the desired attention. We want the Gulf of Guinea to function effectively”, he said.

    Shettima also lauded the Commission’s leadership, expressing Nigeria’s “unalloyed commitment to the ideals and objectives of the commission,” while commending its role in promoting peace and fostering cooperation among member states.

    Earlier, Mr. Abeso, who led the GGC delegation, called for Nigeria’s continued leadership in strengthening the commission’s reform agenda. 

    He emphasised the importance of expanding membership to include all 19 coastal states along the Gulf of Guinea, thereby enhancing joint efforts to combat maritime threats.

    He also underscored the need for regional stakeholders to engage insurance companies on reviewing the high premiums charged on goods transported through the Gulf, arguing that reduced costs would boost trade and economic activities across the subregion.

    The GGC Executive Secretary further hailed Nigeria’s leading role in establishing the Combined Maritime Taskforce, which has been instrumental in coordinating regional naval operations. 

    He urged President Tinubu to sustain this momentum by rallying other political leaders to fully operationalise the taskforce for greater impact.

    The meeting was attended by the Force Commander of the Combined Maritime Taskforce for the Gulf of Guinea, Commodore M. S. Shettima; Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde of the Defence Headquarters; Ambassador Obinna Agbugba of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Mr. Adebowale Badejo of the GGC.

  • You are a blessing to Tinubu’s govt, Speaker Abbas hails Shettima at 59

    You are a blessing to Tinubu’s govt, Speaker Abbas hails Shettima at 59

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has congratulated the Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, as he marks his 59th birthday on September 2.

    Speaker Abbas, who said Shettima has a life worth celebrating, described him as a man of high intellect and a loyal, trusted, and dependable ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

    In a congratulatory message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker noted that Senator Shettima is an experienced and excellent politician and public administrator.

    Speaker Abbas recalled how the vice president excelled in the private sector as a banker and during his time as governor of Borno State. 

    Read Also: Speaker Abbas applaud APC’s victory in bye-election

    He said VP Shettima’s legislative experience as a member of the 9th Senate before becoming the vice president has added immense value to the Tinubu administration.

    He said Senator Shettima as the vice president has continued to foster unity among ethno-religious divides, lead economic reforms, and remain a strong pillar in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    While wishing VP Shettima more years on earth, the Speaker prayed to Allah (SWT) to continue to guide and protect him as he serves Nigeria with passion and zeal.

  • President celebrates ‘loyal deputy Shettima’ at 59

    President celebrates ‘loyal deputy Shettima’ at 59

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday described Vice President Kashim Shettima as a loyal deputy, dependable partner and an embodiment of service-driven leadership.

    In a personal tribute to celebrate the vice president on his 56th birthday, President Tinubu lauded Shettima’s courage, tenacity and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

    He noted that his choice of Shettima as vice president has proven to be one of his most rewarding decisions.

    The president’s tribute reads: “Today presents another unique opportunity to celebrate you, my brother, co-traveller and vice president, as you mark another birthday.

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    “Since we embarked on this journey, united by the shared vision of building a more prosperous nation, your courage, sense of duty, tenacity, determination, and belief in Nigeria’s greatness have remained unshaken.”

    Highlighting Shettima’s public service career, Tinubu commended his record as Governor of Borno State and later as senator representing Borno Central, roles in which, according to the President, Shettima proved that “leadership is service, not privilege, even in the face of immense challenges.”

    The President further applauded Shettima’s contributions in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing his involvement in forging new global partnerships and driving reforms on food security and investments.

    He stressed that Shettima’s fresh perspectives and unwavering support have strengthened the administration’s work and reassured Nigerians of its commitment to development.

    Tinubu noted: “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.”