Shettima returns from two-week leave ahead of schedule

Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria, cutting short his two-week leave by two days. He was expected back on August 20, 2026, but arrived in Abuja late on August 18, 2026. His early return comes just as campaign activities for the 2027 general elections are set to begin on August 19, following an announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

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He returned yesterday evening.

Shettima had begun his leave on August 6, 2026, with the approval of President Bola Tinubu. This marked his first leave since taking office on May 29, 2023. His Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, stated that the leave was intended for "study, reflection and intellectual renewal." Nkwocha added that it provided an opportunity for the Vice President to review the administration's ongoing programs and deepen his understanding of national and global policy issues, preparing for the "intensified implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda."

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We were expecting him since yesterday. He has resumed.

Despite his early return, Shettima did not attend the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, which was presided over by President Tinubu. Nkwocha previously highlighted Shettima's active involvement in coordinating and supervising key government initiatives since assuming office. These initiatives span economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation, and regional cooperation. He also chairs the National Economic Council, a body that includes the governors of all 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and other public officials.

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study, reflection and intellectual renewal.