Tinubu and Nigerian Leaders Praise Shettima’s Service and Patriotism at 60

President Bola Tinubu marked Vice President Kashim Shettima’s 60th birthday with a tribute that cast his deputy as both a trusted political partner and a committed public servant. Governors, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other political leaders joined the praise.

In a personally signed message, Tinubu called Shettima “my brother and partner in steering the ship of our state.” He praised Shettima’s earlier banking career, his service to Borno State and Nigeria, and what he described as his courage, diligence, compassion and commitment to improving Nigerians’ lives.

Tinubu also highlighted Shettima’s loyalty to the All Progressives Congress and his support for the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. As chairman of the National Economic Council, Shettima had provided leadership in coordinating economic policy and fostering cooperation between the federal government and the states, Tinubu said.

“

Today, I warmly congratulate Vice President Kashim Shettima, my brother and partner in steering the ship of our state, on his 60th birthday on September 2.

The president further credited Shettima’s respect for constitutional governance, democratic institutions, dialogue and consultation with strengthening good governance. He described his deputy’s loyalty, wisdom and sense of duty as invaluable to the administration, and prayed for his continued guidance, protection, wisdom and good health.

Akpabio described Shettima’s career, from commissioner and two-term Borno governor to senator and vice president, as a record of courage, intellectual depth and patriotism. He singled out Shettima’s time as governor during one of Borno’s most difficult periods, when the Boko Haram insurgency subjected residents to prolonged insecurity. Borno Governor Babagana Zulum said the low-key birthday celebration reflected Shettima’s humility and selflessness, while northern senators called him a bridge builder and voice of reason.

“

Kashim is not just a trusted ally or a valued colleague, but also a patriot whose life has been defined by service, commitment and sacrifice for worthy causes.