Kashim Shettima: When Loyalty Pays

By: Dr James Bwala

In Nigerian politics, loyalty is frequently tested, and the allegiance of political actors can sway as swiftly as public opinion. Yet, amidst this volatility, we stood, and our steadfastness not only shaped the trajectory of Tinubu and Shettima’s alliances but also solidified the very foundation of their successful leadership during the last three years of the administration. Vice President Kashim Shettima’s emergence again as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 elections is a vivid testament to his strategic stewardship, loyalty and partnership. If there are any lessons we learnt from VP Kashim Shettima, they are his calmness in the face of a storm. 

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VP Kashim Shettima epitomises the indispensable pillar of Tinubu’s ticket, embodying resilience, dedication, and a vision that transcends mere political expediency. His journey together with Tinubu is not just a political coincidence but a deliberate and principled alliance—a bond forged through trials, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for Nigeria’s future.

For the gravity of Kashim Shettima’s role in the Tinubu ticket, it is essential to understand the context within which their partnership flourished. Nigerian politics, much like any other democratic system, is riddled with factionalism, shifting loyalties, and the constant jockeying for power and influence. Against this backdrop, many politicians have allied themselves opportunistically, aligning only when it benefits their immediate ambitions. 

And during those days even those of us who are learning to hold the robes, some of us, have given way. By contrast, my unwavering support for Shettima over the years and in those trying moments has never wavered, even when circumstances appeared unfavourable. This constancy is not simply a matter of personal affinity but a calculated commitment grounded in conviction and trust—qualities that are rare and invaluable in Nigerian political circles, as my brother and friend Hon. Yunus Mairami, who has been following my articles, penned in his few lines with prayers that swell my emotions. 

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For me, Kashim Shettima’s significance on this ticket extends beyond his political stature or the formal title he now holds as vice president. He symbolises the “life of the Tinubu ticket” because he brings more than just electoral advantage; he brings a narrative of resilience and authenticity. When the path appeared uncertain, when scepticism about the Muslim-Muslim ticket permeated political discourse, and when other politicians scrambled to reposition themselves in pursuit of favour, I remained resolutely by Shettima’s side. Not because I thought this day would come, but I knew it would come, and here we are. 

This was not naive optimism but a deliberate stance anchored in deep belief—not only in his character but also in the strategic soundness of our coalition. Political battles are often likened to storms, and while many sought shelter amid the tempest, we chose to stand firm on a solid ground of trust and shared purpose. The biblical story of King David and his men in the Cave of Adullam serves as an apt metaphor for this loyalty. David’s companions who endured hardship alongside him in the cave were those who ultimately ascended with him to the palace. 

The truth about leadership and loyalty is that those who remain steadfast during moments of obscurity and struggle deserve to share in the rewards of victory. Although they said this principle does not reflect the Nigerian system, I believe this principle guides my relationship with Shettima. He never forgets. Our alliance was not forged out of convenience or fleeting advantage but through shared battles and unyielding faith. Such loyalty is not blind allegiance; it is a recognition of genuine leadership and an affirmation of enduring values.

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I met critics, a lot of them, on this journey, who asked me about the viability of the Muslim-Muslim ticket in the Nigerian political reality, given the country’s complex religious and ethnic diversity. They argue that such a pairing risks alienating significant constituencies and igniting tensions. I have stood on the ground that, if it did not happen in 2023, it will not happen in 2027 because Nigeria is more than a religious chessboard. Today, we celebrate again the selection of Shettima as Tinubu’s running mate. This is a strategic masterstroke that defies simplistic interpretations based solely on identity politics. It is a testament to the maturity and vision of both leaders, signifying a commitment to unity, national integration, and the transcendence of divisive narratives. Shettima’s track record in the last three years demonstrates his capacity for effective governance and resilience in the face of adversity. These qualities make him not just a symbol of loyalty but an embodiment of a competent and courageous leader. 

The political landscape in Nigeria demands partnerships that are rooted in trust and mutual respect rather than transactional calculations. The political arena is deeply impacted by intrigue, shifting allegiances, and often self-serving manoeuvres. In such an environment, Shettima’s steadfastness provides a stable anchor for the Tinubu campaign. When many doubted his place on the ticket, and when internal forces applied pressure to reconsider the alliance, my support never faltered. This is the hallmark of a loyal soldier—one who does not waver in the face of adversity but remains committed to the cause and the leader. Such loyalty is not merely symbolic; it is a strategic asset that strengthens the ticket’s cohesion and credibility.

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The role of loyalty in political success cannot be overstated. Historical and contemporary examples alike illustrate that the most enduring political triumphs are often those built on relationships of trust and shared sacrifice. Loyalty fosters unity, mitigates internal divisions, and galvanises collective effort towards common goals. In the case of Tinubu and Shettima, this loyalty is not unidirectional. Shettima himself has publicly acknowledged the steadfastness of his supporters and allies, recognising that political victories are the product of collaborative dedication. This mutual recognition fortifies the partnership, enhancing its resilience against external pressures and internal dissent.

The congratulatory messages I have received from many quarters underscore a broader recognition of Shettima’s important role on Tinubu’s ticket. His selection and the affirmations are not mere pleasantries but reflections of the political community’s acknowledgement of his contributions and potential. The prayers for me to be among the recipients of a victory award signify solidarity and confidence in the shared journey towards electoral success. It is a collective endorsement of the values of loyalty, perseverance, and principled leadership that Shettima embodies. Such communal validation reinforces the argument that Shettima is indeed the lifeblood of the Tinubu ticket. I salute the President for the courage and belief he has in Kashim Shettima. 

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The emergence of Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 elections is a historic and strategically sound development. It is the culmination of a loyal partnership forged through mutual respect, shared struggles, and an unwavering belief in a common vision for Nigeria. Against the backdrop of political opportunism and uncertainty, Shettima stands out as a figure of integrity and resilience—qualities that are indispensable for sustaining a successful political alliance and for guiding Nigeria towards stability and progress. 

Loyalty nourishes leadership and ensures that those who endure together triumph together. With Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Tinubu ticket is not merely positioned to win an election; it is poised to lead Nigeria with a united and purposeful heart. I congratulate him now and always, confident that our shared commitment will yield victory and a lasting legacy come 2027.

Kashim Shettima: When Loyalty Pays

Nigeria: The cacophony surrounding calls for Tinubu’s resignations, Shettima’s replacement, and protests ahead of 2027 general elections 

By: Dr James Bwala

The constant political arguing in Nigeria, with people asking for President Bola Tinubu to step down, wanting Vice President Kashim Shettima to be replaced, loud protests about safety issues, and constant talk about how this government is worse than before, is getting louder and more expected as the 2027 elections get closer. These upsets, even though they seem strong, usually follow a repeating pattern that’s more about political shows than real change.

As history shows, even with all the talk and distractions, Tinubu and Shettima’s government is set to finish its term by 2031. The so-called prophets who predicted their failure will fail; political people who take advantage of situations will gain from it; sceptics and those who don’t know much will wake up and see the tough facts they ignored; and organisers of protests will end up losing money, since only a few people make money from big group actions. Indeed, Nigeria’s political situation has been a recurring theme in every election cycle since the country regained democracy in 1999. In fact, to end this cycle, Nigerians need to move beyond misleading words and regional divisions and start looking for answers inside the country to its ongoing problems. History shows that these issues started right after independence, when regional identities began to grow stronger.

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The main issue causing tension now is the opposition’s demands both outside the APC and inside the party for President Tinubu to step down right away and for Vice President Shettima to be removed as well. These demands, driven by angry public protests and strong opinions in the media, usually come from feelings of being unsafe and dissatisfaction with how the government is handling things. People can understand why they’re unhappy—because there are still problems like banditry, kidnappings, and fights between communities—but these complaints often forget about the political system that the Tinubu-Shettima government works within. Nigerians should understand that running a country is a difficult and long process, and big changes usually don’t happen quickly. Moreover, the laws and constitution help keep elected officials safe from being removed without good reason. So, the better approach is to work with the existing systems to bring about change, instead of using strong emotions that don’t lead to real results and cause problems for everyone else.

Making things more complicated are the natural comparisons people make between this government and previous ones. Critics frequently refer to past governments to point out the weaknesses of Tinubu and Shettima or to praise the successes of former leaders. However, these comparative analyses often have problems with selective memory and biassed opinions. Every government in Nigeria since it started being a democracy has faced many different problems—like economic issues, conflicts between different ethnic groups, corruption, and dangers to safety. No government has come into power without being affected or having won completely. Nigerians should focus on the future instead of comparing who did better or worse. They should look closely at how policies are working and make sure people are held responsible, no matter which political group they belong to. This approach would create a political culture where people give honest feedback instead of constantly pointing fingers at each other.

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The constant demand for change before the 2027 elections isn’t just happening in Nigeria; it’s something that happens in many democracies around the world. In Nigeria, this political trading has turned into a ritual, where the same people keep winning and others keep losing. The powerful political leaders use this situation to gain more control, while the voters keep moving between feeling hopeful and becoming disappointed. This pattern weakens the process of building a stable democracy and leads to people feeling distrustful and disappointed. For real and long-term change, Nigerians need to go beyond just talking and pretending and instead focus on making big, lasting changes to the system. This means making government organisations stronger, keeping things open and honest, teaching people about their rights and how to participate, and making sure everyone has a say in decisions. The country can only break free from this never-ending pattern of letdown by dealing with the real problems at the heart of the issue.

A major obstacle to Nigeria’s political progress is the ongoing use of regional and ethnic-religious language to divide people. Politicians and groups with special interests frequently use these splits to gain more support, which unintentionally makes society’s differences worse. These methods might help in the short run, but they usually make people distrust each other and slow down the country coming together. The result is a country that is split up, making it hard to work together on important issues, and it’s tough to find good answers to big problems. Nigerians should work together to stop harmful stories that divide people and build a shared sense of belonging that goes beyond local concerns. Seeing diversity as a strength instead of a weakness helps create teamwork and supports long-term growth.

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It is just as important to recognise the role that voters play in continuing or stopping this cycle. When people don’t care about voting because they don’t trust the system or feel things aren’t changing, it makes democracy weaker and gives more power to those who are already in control. Voting without proper information, based on things like ethnicity, religion, or favouritism, hurts the idea of meritocracy and makes government work less effectively. It’s essential to give citizens strong civic education that covers everything they need to know. A knowledgeable group of voters can make leaders answer for their actions, ask for honesty, and push for rules that improve the country’s health. So, strong involvement from citizens is really important for changing Nigeria’s political direction towards stability and success.

Protests can be a valid way for people to show they disagree with something in a democracy, but they only work well if they have clear goals and are organised in a smart way. In Nigeria, many protests turn into shows that help a few people make money instead of pushing for real changes in policies. The cost of putting on protests usually comes from people who are already struggling, but those who organise them get political power or money in return. For protests to lead to real changes, they need to be supported by ongoing efforts to raise awareness, talking with people in power, and taking real steps to make things happen. People and groups that work for the good of society should adjust their approaches to focus on peaceful, inclusive, and effective ways of making changes.

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In the end, solving Nigeria’s many complex issues isn’t about sudden changes in government but about working together to create strong systems and ensure fair leadership for everyone. President Tinubu’s and Vice President Shettima’s government, just like the ones before them, will finish the time they are supposed to serve according to the country’s laws. The real question is whether Nigerians will use this time to work with the government in a positive way, take part in elections and other democratic activities, and ask for honest and responsible actions from those in power. Only by having citizens who are committed and responsible can a country move past repeated failures and create real, lasting improvements.

The loud noise and chaos about people demanding resignations, new leaders, and protests before Nigeria’s 2027 elections show a long history of political problems without real changes. The urge to see government through the eyes of short-term anger or political competition only keeps the country’s problems going. Nigerians need to stop lying to themselves, stop focusing on dividing the country by region, and work together in a united way to deal with the problems they all face. By doing this, they can escape the repeating pattern of political compromises and create a lasting plan for the country’s growth and peace. The future of Nigeria relies not on empty words but on a lasting dedication to shared responsibility and fair leadership for everyone.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nigeria: The cacophony surrounding calls for Tinubu’s resignations, Shettima’s replacement, and protests ahead of 2027 general elections 

Unite North: VP Shettima’s Call for Peace and Unity Among Northern Communities

By: Dr. James Bwala 

Northern Nigeria is home to a multiplicity of cultures and ethnic groups; the Hausas, the Fulanis, the Kanuris, and the Nupes all live in Northern Nigeria. Because most of these groups share a common heritage and have a long history of peacefully living together, Northern Nigeria’s communities play a vital role in the socio-economic development of the country. However, the occurrence of conflicts between groups of people residing in the North has unfortunately stifled economic development, caused people to be displaced, and even cost some their lives.

Recently, Vice President Kashim Shettima made an important plea to some communities, specifically the Hausas and the Fulanis, for an end to conflict and a unification of forces. His compliments and constructive criticism are accurate and needed for the ongoing development of peace and growth in the Northern region of Nigeria. 

The vice president’s words reflect a deep understanding of the realities of this situation. He mentioned that Hausas, Fulanis, Kanuris, and the Nupes all possess no defining differences. He pointed out that the struggle in the North brings violence to communities that all share hopes and dreams of economic and social development and reinforces the barriers that separate them from the assistance that the federal government is ready to provide.

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In looking at the causes of conflict between these groups, one can see that political manipulation and historical grievances, along with competition for limited resources and misunderstanding, also play important roles. The conflict between the settled agricultural communities, mainly the Hausas and Kanuris, and the pastoral Fulanis revolves mainly around issues of land, the use of land for grazing, and the availability of water. Lack of communication and distrust serve to deepen the impact of violence on every group.

Vice President Shettima’s appeal for forgiveness and unity is an appeal for reconciliation on a national level. In conflict situations, forgiveness allows the groups to overcome the historical grievances and concentrate on the common objectives. This appeal for forgiveness and reconciliation is effective when there is strong will and involvement from the grassroots. Such an initiative enables the leadership to strengthen communication and to promote the realization of structures and systems for peaceful coexistence. The councils, religious institutions, and civil society organs are able to promote the necessary and sufficient conditions of reconciliation and forgiveness.

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The northern peoples’ unity can help maximize government and private investments. Once initiatives for development and the building of health and educational infrastructure for the North begin, a peaceful environment will be required. The fullest help from the government should see the greatest commitment from the people to keep the peace and work for progress. 

The North’s strategic significance to the entire country of Nigeria must also be recognized. As Nigeria’s major provider of agricultural and trade resources and of the human resources upon which the nation draws, the North’s growth must be a worthy goal for Nigeria’s entire growth. Social conflicts among the various ethnic groups in the North will fragment the region and adversely affect Nigeria’s potential for peace, stability, and growth. Thus, appeals for peace and unity must be seen not only as a regional concern but also as a national concern.

In order to achieve lasting peace in the North and reconcile the people following this ugly and unfortunate situation, the North must look inwardly and establish and implement a multi-faceted approach in addressing the underlying causes of violence and tension that have engulfed the region for decades now. Measures to be taken should include equitable distribution of resources, transparent governance, effective conflict resolution mechanisms, and empowerment of youth and women who are often the victims of these conflicts. There is also the need for educational campaigns that would promote cultural awareness, religious tolerance, and respect for individuals’ dignity, which can be very helpful in dismantling prejudices and fostering solidarity among diverse ethnic groups that made us strong as Arewa people. 

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While we come together as a people to do the needful, the government also must ensure that security agencies operating across states in the North must earn the confidence of the people while discharging their duties impartially and effectively to protect all citizens irrespective of where they are held. Also, the issue of accountability for perpetrators of violence, if taken with some degree of justice, can deter future conflicts and therefore build confidence in the justice system. In addition to this, there should be investment in rural development and sustainable agriculture so as to alleviate competition over resources while encouraging cooperation through joint ventures and community projects to serve the common good.

Kashim Shettima’s vision for a strong and united Northern Nigeria is not just about an idealistic plea; the vision is a strategic approach necessary for building a North whose foundation its fathers have left for the generation now and for generations to come. Therefore, it is incumbent on the people to embrace their common identity through unity and recognizing that their strength lies in that unity rather than division. It was the unity of the North that led the people to greatness; harnessing their collective potential can transform the region into a beacon of peace, prosperity, and cultural richness. However, the people must realize that this cannot be achieved when violence and killings become a way of life. 

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In analyzing the call made by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, towards ending violence, especially between the Hausas, Fulanis, and other tribes, and the call towards unity for the common good of the people of northern Nigeria, this calls for urgent attention and decisive action, looking at the current situation and the way things are falling apart in the region. Indeed, the future of the region depends on the ability of the people to reconcile their differences, forgive past wrongs, and work together collaboratively toward shared development goals, which are the dreams of the fathers. Also, with government support and communal commitment, the North can walk through these muddy waters and overcome its challenges and set an example of harmony and progress for the entire nation. I believe in the words of the “Jagoran Arewa,” the vice president, that it is indeed time for healing and for northerners to lay down their arms and embrace dialogue and build a united front that will usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for all northerners. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Unite North: VP Shettima’s Call for Peace and Unity Among Northern Communities