Leadership is not meant for nice men — Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima asserted that effective leadership demands courage and decisive action, stating that leaders must be willing to make difficult decisions for national development. Delivering the keynote address at the Niger Delta Agricultural Development and Investment Summit in Abuja, Shettima emphasized that leadership is about taking responsibility rather than seeking popularity.

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People celebrate Rwanda. I adore Paul Kagame. People talk about Seychelles. Yes, the economy has turned the corner.

He drew comparisons between Nigeria and smaller African nations, acknowledging the achievements of leaders like Rwanda's Paul Kagame but stressing that Nigeria's vast and diverse population presents unique governing challenges. Shettima argued that population size is a critical factor, noting that countries like Botswana or Seychelles have populations comparable to single local government areas or wards in Nigeria.

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What is the population of Botswana? Not more than Somolu Local Government Area of Lagos. What is the population of Seychelles? Not more than two wards in Kano metropolis.

Shettima also called for a rediscovery of Nigeria's agricultural heritage, which he described as the nation's former economic backbone and a continuing source of jobs. He commended Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno for his swift facilitation of a proposed $500 million investment in the oil palm sector by a Malaysian producer, which is set to begin with 10,000 hectares in the state.

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We began as an agrarian economy and the foundation of this nation was laid upon it.

"Leadership is not meant for nice men. Nice men should be selling chocolates, ice cream," Shettima remarked, underscoring his view that true leadership involves tough choices and impactful action, not mere pleasantries. He believes that such decisive leadership is crucial for Nigeria's progress.

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They came to my office with their Nigerian counterpart. I called the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno. He picked the phone and these are people who are willing to invest $500 million in oil palm.