Politics

2023: There is no sincerity on zoning of President- Hon Lawal

Published

4 years ago

March 1, 2022

News Net Global

2023: There is no sincerity on zoning of President- Hon Lawal

By: Michael Mike

The member representing Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency of Ogun State, Hon. Kolawole Lawal has said there is currently no sincerity from cross-section of Nigerians concerning zoning of the office of the President.

He insisted that the zoning of office of the President cannot be achieved at the party level but at a legal level with law enforcing movement of the office across the zones.

Speaking at the February edition of the monthly programme organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja chapter, with the theme: “2023 and the zoning question”, Lawal however advised that the issue of zoning should be shelved ahead of the 2023 General Elections, insisting that the issue of zoning will not give Nigeria the desired results as a country.

Lawal argued that the issue of zoning is not a constitutional matter and that Nigerians across political divide have not been sincere with it so far, adding that if Nigerians had been sincere with it, there is a particular reference in the Constitution that would have clearly taken care of it.

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He further stressed that since Nigerians are not sincere with the issue of zoning and that it is not well backed by law, it would be difficult to enforce.

He said: “What I have always said on zoning is that we have zoning at the convention, its like it is almost becoming a tradition. But it is not a constitutional matter; either in the 1999 constitution amended or the active constitution.

“If there is sincerity in the issue of zoning, nobody would come out today from the Northern part of Nigeria to say they want to contest the 2023 presidential election of Nigeria. Even the PDP that started it, I am not sure it is in their constitution. If it is required in their constitution, like today now, Atiku will not be waiting to contest. In fact, yesterday he was in Ogun State, where he said he was going to come out soon.

“That is why I said there is no sincerity with the issue of zoning, and it is not on solid foundation, and therefore, not sacrosanct, even by those who say that they are practicing it.

“For instance, if you ask any PDP person today, they will say: “there is no issue of zoning, we want somebody that is competent, which is true, a competent person that can take Nigeria out of the woods, and there is no issue of zoning. That is why I said, yes, there is zoning but it is not documented, it is not something that can be proudly fought for.

“I have said it clearly that there is a particular reference in the Constitution that clearly took care of zoning. That is federal character principle. That is why it is established in the Constitution in Section 153(1C). Also for equitability and fair distribution of resources, we have Section 14(3), Section 147(3), Section 171(5), those should have taken care of issues surrounding equitable and fair distribution of resources and political appointments.

“But, because we have not implemented the issues around federal character very well, that is why people are still talking about revolution, that is why people are still talking about zoning.

“I have said it severally that in this country, we have enough laws that if well implemented, Nigeria will be better off. We do not need new laws; we can be doing some amendments but we have all the laws that we need. But because of bad or poor implementation, that is why we are having agitation all over the place.

“The Federal Character Commission is established to look at the issues around the fact that everybody must be represented in all that we do. There would not be problems with the issue of zoning if we are we observing the federal character principle.

“Normally, there should be a level playing ground for everybody so that we can have good candidates that can take Nigeria to where we want it to be. Somebody that is strong enough to handle Nigeria the way it should be handled.

“But because of the issue of zoning, I am not saying that when you have zoning you will not have people like that, but when you have a level playing ground, you will have what we can call best. We are not saying zoning will not provide that, but if we have a larger horizon, we should be able to get something better. That is why I have said zoning for me will not give us what we desire as a country”.

He however said if Nigerians are truly sincere on the issue of power shift and zoning , the South East ordinarily should have the privilege of producing the president of Nigeria come 2023.

“As a person who believes in equity and fairness, I support zoning, and then, if you want to look at zoning merit, as a Yoruba man from the South West, if power shifts to the South, I will okay it. However, zoning itself is not what we can say can be done right.

“Presidency should have gone to South East. Why? South West has tasted power twice. Because I will say MKO won election. MKO won election and it was annulled, and that is why we had Obasanjo. I should have said it is the turn of the South East but as a Yoruba man, I will say it should return to the South West.

“However, on merit, it should go to the South East. South West would take it, but because we have had it, I think South East should have been the best. This is my opinion. It is not the opinion of any party. This is not the opinion of the House. South South has had it. South West has had it, but South East has not had it. That is the only area in the South that is yet to have it. If we are looking at it on merit, it should be South East. But I am sure as a Yoruba man, it should go to the South West,” Lawal said.

The member representing Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency of Ogun State also charged Nigerians youths to take the bull by the horn and not wait for the older generation to voluntarily relinquish power.

When asked on the need for Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Yemi Osinbajo to drop their ambitions to give the youths a chance, Lawal said: “I am for the youths. I am a youth myself. They should give room to the younger ones but these are political gurus that are eminently qualified to contest for presidency.

“They have the wherewithal, they have whatever it is that is required to contest. But, if the youths want to be part of it, it is a competition. They can compete, the youths should come out en masse and compete with them. Everybody have been talking about the youths, the youths should put themselves together and compete and then be their flag bearer”.

Also Read: Russia destroys world’s largest plane in Ukraine

Addressing the issue of constituency projects, Lawal said: “There is nothing like constituency allowance. Constituency projects monies do not get into the pockets of a legislators or members. Constituency project itself, the money is not given to the member.

“Based on what you discuss with your stakeholders in your constituency, at the beginning of the year before the budget cycle, you will list out what you want the government to do in your constituency as constituency projects. It is called Zonal Intervention Project (ZIP).

“When you put that in the budget and the budget is passed, the fund for that project is released to the agency that you have domiciled the project in. When the project is domiciled there, when they release the fund to them, they do all the tendering process. You do not have ay input, except in some cases, some members recommend contractors. They are not obliged to use contractors nominated by members.

“We have even said that should not happen again in the House because it is conflict of interest. We have advised against that. It is, therefore, the responsibility of the MDA to ensure that the project is done.

“For instance, I am not an engineer, so I cannot know when a project has met the BoQ. They do not give us the Bill of Quantity. We do not see the Bill of Quantity. We do not know what they have agreed with the contractors. The contractor just come to my constituency, I will show him the site where he will put the project or in the case of empowerment programme, I let them know where they will put the items, and I will let them know if they have completed the project.

“In my own opinion, I am not an engineer, and I cannot guarantee whether it is structural okay or not. But I will tell them when they have completed the project. They now come direct to visit the project themselves, most times. After doing that, they now sign off, and they pay it. I do not know the member’s issue comes in as if it is the member that is responsible. In the past, I will say that maybe something that is illicit is happening. But as a member of the National Assembly, and Chairman of Ethics and Privileges, we have monitored, our members have made sure that what they should do, they are doing it.

“We had a motion in the floor where we requested the ICPC to give us the evidence of how they say that N10 billion projects were not executed. They were very magnanimous enough to bring the documents to me. When I reviewed the documents, I realised that most of the projects were duplicated by them, and we let them know that most of the things they said there were not correct. It is occurred in the previous Assembly, not the current Assembly. What we are doing currently is okay.

“If it is done judiciously, it is okay the way it is now, because it allows all parts of the country to be impacted positively in project development. Especially in this ninth assembly, if you look at all members now, we have projects in all of our constituencies. It is a good thing for the country and it is a good thing for the constituency”.

On the issue of life pension for principal officers of the National Assembly, Lawal said: “If I start telling you here, it means you want to know what my vote will look like, and my vote will come tomorrow, not today. So, do not let me vote here. I want to vote at the national chambers. If I tell you whether it is right or wrong now, it means that I am voting. So, I cannot answer that question here.

“On the issue of constitutional review, it has a timeline. It has a roadmap. It has a way it is designed to happen. I am sure it will happen. If we have our voting tomorrow, it gets to the State Houses of Assembly, I am sure it will beat deadline for it to come back for it tube useful to the elections. I think it will be useful for the 2023 electoral process.

“On the insurgence at the border, yes, we are a border community, and our borders have been closed for many years and they have not been reopened just because of the insurgency. But the period running, there are no areas where there is insurgency around there. We have not had any issue of banditry or people coming from the other country to come and terrorise us in our area.

“On my committee; it cannot be a graveyard. No! It depends on who is chairing a committee. My committee cannot be a graveyard because the person that is there has his own brain, has his own sense, has his own ways of doing things. We have had many chairmen of ethics and privileges that have probably that have done things the way they are not supposed to have been done. In our own case, we have not seen anything like that. Matters are referred to us, we treat those matters on their merits. But, the challenge we have in that committee is the constitution or the judiciary are people trying to use the judiciary to probably circumvent whatever it is we are doing.

“If a matter is referred to you now, and want to suspend the member, it is possible that a member go to court and the court will say we do not have the right. Although we can do whatever we want to do as House, and the Privilege Act 2004 has given us that right that whatever we do within that House, no court can stop us from doing it. So, sometimes, members will go to court and we always win”.

2023: There is no sincerity on zoning of President- Hon Lawal

Politics

2027: “Distinguished Vice President and Chairman of the National Economic Council, a very good partner on the journey of progress…” President Tinubu’s End of Quote on Kashim Shettima

Published

2 days ago

February 10, 2026

News Net Global

President Tinubu and VP Shettima

2027: “Distinguished Vice President and Chairman of the National Economic Council, a very good partner on the journey of progress…” President Tinubu’s End of Quote on Kashim Shettima

By: Dr. James Bwala

The remarks made by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding Vice President Kashim Shettima cannot be understated within the four walls of Nigeria’s political narratives, especially around the presidency today. When President Tinubu unequivocally described Shettima as a “distinguished partner on the journey for progress,” he was not merely delivering a platitude. This statement signifies a broader endorsement of the vice president’s role and capabilities within the administration. It also serves as a clear declaration against the backdrop of swirling speculation and skepticism regarding the political landscape leading up to the 2027 elections. Indeed, these comments also reflect a solid commitment to continuity in leadership, clarify the governing vision for Nigeria, and ultimately establish that no one is poised to replace Vice President Shettima come 2027.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nobody-is-replacing-vice-president-kashim-shettima-tinubu-affirms-he-remains-the-best-and-envisions-a-strategic-partnership-for-nigerias-future/

At the crux of Tinubu’s declaration lies a testament to the cooperative spirit necessary for driving socio-economic development in Nigeria. The phrase “a very good partner on the journey for progress” highlights the significance of teamwork in governance. Under Vice President Shettima’s stewardship as the Chairman of the National Economic Council, there has been a concerted effort to address the multifaceted issues facing Nigeria—from inflation to unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and security challenges. Their partnership epitomizes the shared responsibility that is crucial for any government striving for tangible progress.

Political narratives often take root in uncertainty and can easily be distorted by those who favor chaos over collaboration. The “peddlers” of complex, often negative narratives surrounding the presidency, as referenced by President Tinubu, represent factions that thrive on misinformation and divisive politics. The unwavering support exhibited by the President for his Vice President directly contradicts the narratives designed to sow discord. By clarifying the stability and unity within the leadership, President Tinubu sends a strong message: the leadership is united in purpose and direction.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nobody-is-replacing-vice-president-kashim-shettima-tinubu-affirms-he-remains-the-best-and-envisions-a-strategic-partnership-for-nigerias-future/

The implications of such solidarity become increasingly significant as Nigeria heads into the 2027 electoral cycle. Voter sentiment is deeply influenced by perceived cohesion among leaders. In a nation where previous administrations have often faltered due to internal conflict, Tinubu’s endorsement of Shettima as an irreplaceable ally solidifies public confidence in the administration’s agenda. It serves to reassure citizens that the economic and political strategies currently being implemented are rooted in mutual respect and shared goals and wholly committed to their welfare and prosperity.

When the president emphasized Shettima’s role within the context of the National Economic Council, President Tinubu implicitly invited citizens to engage with the ongoing reforms and policies that are pivotal to the country’s future. The Council’s agenda, which includes but is not limited to enhancing Nigeria’s economic resilience, diversifying income sources, and fostering sustainable practices, directly involves the citizens’ participation. Tinubu’s description of Shettima as a “distinguished vice president” suggests that the leadership not only respects expertise but also values the contributions of seasoned politicians who possess a profound understanding of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nobody-is-replacing-vice-president-kashim-shettima-tinubu-affirms-he-remains-the-best-and-envisions-a-strategic-partnership-for-nigerias-future/

The swirling narratives attempting to undermine Vice President Shettima’s position are indicative of a broader struggle between traditional politics and emerging expectations from the electorate. Citizens today demand transparency, accountability, and results—aspects that Vice President Shettima has epitomized through his policies and initiatives. The rhetoric deployed by Tinubu serves as a counter-narrative to those who would seek to diminish Shettima’s contributions. The president’s words affirm both leaders’ commitment to a forward-looking agenda, one that emphasizes progress over petty politics.

The assertion that “no one is replacing the vice president come 2027,” as I wrote sometime ago, is not merely a statement regarding personnel; it is a bold proclamation about the vision for Nigeria’s leadership. In a political arena rife with speculation, such clarity is essential. Potential candidates and party rivals are likely to expend considerable energy attempting to sway public perception in the build-up to elections in 2027. However, Tinubu has positioned Shettima as a stalwart force within the current administration, effectively shutting down rumors and speculation that might foster dissent or division.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nobody-is-replacing-vice-president-kashim-shettima-tinubu-affirms-he-remains-the-best-and-envisions-a-strategic-partnership-for-nigerias-future/

This declaration also sheds light on the critical importance of experience in navigating the complexities of governance. Kashim Shettima has amassed a wealth of knowledge and insight through his various political roles. His tenure as governor of Borno State, especially during times of terrorism and economic strife, showcases his ability to lead under pressure. In a country like Nigeria, where socio-political challenges are ever-evolving, retaining experienced hands at the helm of government is paramount.

Indeed, acknowledging Shettima as a “very good partner” signifies an approach to governance that values collaboration over competition. Rather than fostering an environment where ambitions and personal aspirations drive wedges between leaders, Tinubu’s comments create an atmosphere conducive to teamwork. It reminds us that the goal of governance should always be the collective welfare of the populace, rather than individual accolades or power struggles.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nobody-is-replacing-vice-president-kashim-shettima-tinubu-affirms-he-remains-the-best-and-envisions-a-strategic-partnership-for-nigerias-future/

I called this end of quotes. President Tinubu’s affirmation of Vice President Kashim Shettima as a “distinguished partner on the journey for progress” serves multiple purposes—it articulates a commitment to continuity in leadership, reinforces the spirit of collaboration, and lays the groundwork for upcoming electoral contests.

By addressing and dismantling the negative narratives spun by naysayers, Tinubu strengthens public confidence in the administration’s resolve to pursue a progressive agenda for Nigeria. Importantly, the unequivocal assertion that “a very good partner on the journey of progress” affirms the value of the experience of the vice president, Kashim Shettima, and the necessity of sustained leadership in overcoming the myriad challenges facing the nation. As Nigeria approaches 2027, the unwavering partnership between President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima becomes not just a political alliance but a beacon of hope for progress in the face of adversity.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: “Distinguished Vice President and Chairman of the National Economic Council, a very good partner on the journey of progress…” President Tinubu’s End of Quote on Kashim Shettima

Politics

Who is Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima?

Published

6 days ago

February 6, 2026

News Net Global

Who is Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima?

Who is Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima?

By: Dr. James Bwala

Last night someone asked me this question while we listened to three series of radio interviews with Malam Ahmed Yerima on different titles: “akwai kallo,” “rashin tabbas,” etc., and this particular politician, who invited me for dinner at his mansion, said he is amazed by the calmness of the VP in all that has been going on around as we listened to the Hausa interview. I asked him how long he has known the VP. His reply was close to when he became the vice president. I told him the vice president reads. That was what made him different, and that is who he is. Rather than understand my reply, he got confused by my simple reply, and I noticed it, but we laughed it all off.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-respectful-leadership-of-vice-president-kashim-shettima/

But on my way home, the thought flashes back just around Abatcha Barracks. “His calm demeanor, profound knowledge, and unwavering respect for people.” Indeed, Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima. His character—not merely shaped by position but also by a deep commitment to reading and self-development—illustrates the essence of wisdom that transcends political ambitions. Yes! Vice President Kashim Shettima has cultivated a culture around himself that emphasizes the importance of knowledge through reading, the impact of this commitment on his leadership style, and why it sets him apart in Nigeria’s chaotic political landscape.

Kashim Shettima’s love for learning is not just a personal preference but a lifestyle choice grounded in the belief that reading expands one’s understanding of the world. He embodies the adage, “He who reads increases in knowledge.” This philosophy is not merely a reflection of his character; it is his guiding principle. Each night, he dedicates time to read at least a chapter from a book before bedtime. This routine fosters an environment of continuous learning, enabling him to engage in informed discussions and make decisions based on a well-rounded perspective.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-respectful-leadership-of-vice-president-kashim-shettima/

In a society where many are distracted by the immediacies of daily life, Shettima’s deliberate choice to prioritize reading serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring leaders who wish to impact their communities positively. The significance of Shettima’s reading habit extends beyond his personal development; it resonates with his approach to leadership. Through his reading, he gains insights into diverse cultures, philosophies, and governance models, which enrich his understanding of Nigeria’s complex socio-political fabric. This extensive knowledge equips him to respond effectively to various challenges facing the nation, whether economic, social, or security-related. By promoting a culture of reading, he encourages others to embrace learning and critical thinking, thus fostering a more educated populace capable of participating meaningfully in democracy.

Kashim Shettima’s wisdom is reflected in his interactions with others. In today’s political arena, where disrespect and insult have become commonplace, Shettima opts for diplomacy and respect. His belief that wisdom is his guidance allows him to navigate even the most challenging conversations with grace. He listens intently, valuing the opinions of others—even those with whom he may disagree. This practice fosters an environment where constructive dialogue can flourish, allowing for collaborative solutions to emerge instead of divisive rhetoric. In a landscape riddled with conflict, this approach is not only refreshing but also necessary for building bridges among Nigeria’s various ethnic and cultural groups.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-respectful-leadership-of-vice-president-kashim-shettima/

Amidst the turbulence that often characterizes Nigerian politics, where reputations can be built or destroyed overnight, Shettima remains a steadfast figure. His ability to maintain composure, likened to shining brightly like the Northern Star, stems from his profound understanding of the dynamics at play in governance. He recognizes that politics can be unpredictable; yet, he remains true to his values, grounded in knowledge and guided by wisdom. This constancy earns him respect across party lines and among ordinary citizens, establishing him as a leader who prioritizes the nation’s stability over personal or partisan gain.

Shettima’s calmness during crises demonstrates his leadership qualities in action. For instance, during periods of violence and insecurity in his home state of Borno, he did not succumb to panic or despair. Instead, he employed a measured approach, combining both empathy for the affected communities and strategic planning for rehabilitation and recovery. By focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, he instills confidence in his capacity to lead effectively. His methods serve as a model for other leaders in Nigeria, showcasing the impact of grounded, wise leadership in turbulent times.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-respectful-leadership-of-vice-president-kashim-shettima/

VP Shettima emphasizes the importance of mentorship and education. He actively promotes initiatives aimed at empowering youth through educational programs and skill acquisition workshops. Understanding that the future of Nigeria lies within its young population, he invests time and resources to encourage them to read, learn, and grow. By doing so, he cultivates a new generation of informed citizens who can contribute positively to society. This commitment to future leaders highlights his recognition that true leadership is not merely about holding a position of power; it is about nurturing the potential in others. Perhaps the reason why young people are the ones seen mostly around him is

Kashim Shettima’s unique combination of knowledge, wisdom, and respect creates a distinctive leadership style that resonates deeply within Nigeria’s political sphere. He stands apart from the typical political figure characterized by a relentless pursuit of power or personal gain. Instead, he views his role as a privilege—one that comes with a responsibility to serve the people with integrity. His dedication to reading empowers him with the tools necessary for effective governance, reinforcing the idea that education and wisdom are paramount for anyone seeking to lead.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-respectful-leadership-of-vice-president-kashim-shettima/

Critics might argue that in a political system fraught with corruption and opportunism, Shettima’s approach may seem naïve or ineffective. However, it is essential to recognize that true change begins with individuals willing to challenge the status quo. By embodying the principles of knowledge, respect, and wisdom, Shettima not only influences those around him but also inspires a broader movement toward a more accountable and progressive political culture in Nigeria. His unyielding commitment to these values offers a counter-narrative to the prevailing cynicism often associated with politics today.

So, my answer to this question in its deepest appeal is that Kashim Shettima represents a refreshing departure from the norm in Nigerian politics. His culture of reading, grounded in the belief that knowledge drives respect and understanding, shapes his interactions, decision-making, and overall leadership style and defines the man we all called “Oga.” Indeed, in a world where distractions abound, Shettima stands as a testament to the transformative power of wisdom nourished through reading. As he navigates the political terrain, his calmness amid chaos serves as an example for current and aspiring leaders alike. Ultimately, Shettima demonstrates that embracing knowledge and wisdom is not merely a personal endeavor but a foundation upon which impactful leadership can be built, creating a lasting legacy for generations to come.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Who is Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima?

Politics

The Respectful Leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima

Published

2 weeks ago

February 1, 2026

News Net Global

Vice President Kashim Shettima

The Respectful Leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima

By: Dr. James Bwala

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, stood where respect and integrity define a man and his character. He embodies what can be tagged as pure respect over the rhetorical blend of others who trade where respect and integrity are often overshadowed by ambition and divisive rhetoric. His character exemplifies respect towards everyone he encounters.

Kashim Shettima’s respect for President Tinubu is multi-dimensional, stemming not only from their current partnership in governance but also from the deep-rooted ties they forged long before assuming their respective offices. This relationship is underpinned by a shared vision for Nigeria’s future, founded on mutual respect and understanding.