Shettima’s renomination reward for loyalty, say APC North-East stakeholders

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria's North-East region have publicly declared their support for Vice President Kashim Shettima's renomination as President Bola Tinubu's running mate for the 2027 general election. They characterize this potential renomination as a direct acknowledgment of Shettima's steadfast loyalty, dedication, capability, and diligent work ethic during his tenure.

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This gathering is deliberate, timely and important. We are here to celebrate leadership, loyalty and victory together. We are specifically here in support of and in honour of the renomination of our leader and mentor, Senator Kashim Shettima. It is not by chance; it is a reward for loyalty, capacity, commitment and hard work.

During a grand youth celebration event held in Bauchi, organized to back Shettima's renomination, the Director-General of the BAT/KSM Progressive Alliance, Abubakar Zaid, highlighted the Vice President's consistent support for President Tinubu. Zaid stated that Shettima has been instrumental in coordinating significant government reforms, chairing the National Economic Council, and championing initiatives in education, micro, small, and medium enterprises, and food security. He also stressed Shettima's commitment to ensuring the North-East region is integrated into major government policies.

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The Vice President has been a pillar of support to Mr President. He has coordinated key reforms under his office, chaired the National Economic Council, championed programmes for education, micro, small and medium enterprises, food security, and ensured that the North-East remains carried along in major government policies.

Zaid specifically commended the APC's youth wing for their unwavering commitment since the 2023 general election, acknowledging their role in mobilizing, organizing, and defending the party's mandate. He assured young supporters that the alliance would continue to foster opportunities for training, empowerment, and engagement with the government. The stakeholders also recognized the crucial role of women and elders in the party's mobilization efforts, describing them as the backbone of the campaign, providing reach, guidance, and energy.

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You have mobilised, organised, sensitised communities and defended the mandate. Without the youth, there is no strong political structure and no victory. The celebration is for you because your commitment has kept the party united.

Mahmud Muhammad, the Personal Assistant on Domestic and North-East Affairs in the Office of the Vice President, echoed these sentiments. He asserted that Shettima's initial selection as Tinubu's running mate in 2023 was based on merit, competence, loyalty, and a deep understanding of governance, emphasizing that his role was never intended to be merely decorative.

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His selection was not for decoration.