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APC Chairmanship: ‘Why we are mobilizing support for Senator Kashim Shettima’ – Nigerian Youths

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2023: Why should anyone be incensed over Shettima’s Choice as Tinubu’s Running Mate?

APC Chairmanship: ‘Why we are mobilizing support for Senator Kashim Shettima’ – Nigerian Youths

By: James Bwala, Maiduguri

Former governor of Borno state and Senator Representing Borno Central at the National Assembly, Senator Kashim Shettima may not have indicated interest in vying for the position of the APC National Chairmanship. But youths across party lines have joined the band wagon to mobilize support for the Senator while also making a clarion call for him to speak out. The youths who spoke to NEWSng said that they have neither read his lips or observed his body language to inform their call but that they have studied the political lines in the country where observation showed that the Borno strong man may be the right candidate for the position if he decided to answer the call to duty.

Also Read: Electricity Restored in Maiduguri, One year after Boko…

Ahmed Ahmed, a politician in Yobe state observed that, the situation in the country today has presented a phase that requires a man with vision to champion the cause of the ruling party –The APC. According to him, ” With respect to late Chinua Achibe with the title of his novel: ‘ Things Fall Apart.’ He said, indeed things have fallen apart in the country both politically and administratively. And that Nigerians are now looking at governor’s, who had left better legacies as politicians and administrators to lead political parties especially the ruling party. 

According to him, “Looking at the background, Kashim Shettima appears to have possessed all the qualities. Without mincing words, I have personally observed that, most of the people in line have no qualifications to stair Nigeria out of the troubled waters as would Kashim Shettima if given the opportunity to lead APC in the coming months. I have joined thousands of supporters in making the clarion call. I also hope that he will yield as this is an opportunity to save the country from shipwreck.

Asked why he is joining hundreds of mobilizers to call on the former Borno state governor to join the race for the National Chairmanship of the ruling APC, Ahmed Ahmed said, “First, there is nothing to lose for Kashim Shettima. He is a serving Senator and one of the key Senators Nigeria is blessed with. Secondly, his activities as the people’s senator has differentiated him looking at the roles he took and his presentations at the floor of the senate, which score him for any job he wishes to take now or in the future. On a third count, I would like to observe that, putting all those seeking to lead the APC on a balanced scale, you would agree with me that Kashim Shettima has left a legacy, which is working in Borno state. I have been to Maiduguri several times as I have been to many states. I know where Kashim Shettima left as a governor and where Zulum continues. You are also a testimony to those facts. He said.

Also speaking to NEWSng on the leadership of the ruling APC, a member of the opposition party, PDP in Borno state, Alhaji Tijjani Umar said, his views are no different from thousands of people calling on former Borno state governor to make appearance like others seeking to help this country out of the woods.

“Although I am from the opposition, I know what is right for this country at this moment. Senator Kashim Shettima shares a vision for a better Nigeria. The APC administration has failed this country. In the north particularly, we have been caged by the activities of bandits, Boko Haram and kidnappers. This problem needs a holistic approach and at this time we should not be looking at party differences. The PDP have chosen their own Chairman, every Nigerian is looking at what APC may produce. This will determine where the country may be heading to in 2023. I hope that they make the right choice. They should not parade candidates who are not sellable to the Nigerian people.” He said

Also Read: Bandits leader, Bello Turji injured in military raid in…

Speaking on the matter arising, Jinjiri Ibrahim, a stakeholder in the APC Kano told NEWSng that, in as much as he would want APC to continue in 2023. The choice of leadership may make or mar the party. “I have read a lot about all the contending figures or personalities and I know them and know their capacity. A few days ago, I was approached by a certain group clamouring for better leadership in the APC. I told them only when APC has a personality with a vision, the party may suffer or put millions of Nigerians further into want and perdition. I am a member of the APC; we are not deaf to hearing the positions of millions of our people from within the party. I can give you an example of what is happening with the party here in Kano. We now have two factions although I will not tell you where I belong but of course you know that this is about leadership. I mean the right leadership. Kano should be a case study for APC at the National level.

“Like I said, I know all of them that their names have been mentioned. Not all of them have made a move yet. Those who indeed have made a move are few at this time. Senator Kashim Shettima is a man of honour. I have respect for him and I know that like other two or three Nigerians are calling, he makes a list of better candidates we are looking at this time of our history.” He said.

Also Read: Bandits kill 20 in Kaduna

Adamu Garba, a politician in Abuja said, “Talking about courageous leadership, I will vote for Kashim Shettima. Courage is not about bulldozing your way into a position of leadership. Courage is about your level of thinking and your capacity to build long and lasting relationships. I have no doubt about this about Kashim Shettima, he could be the answer to so many problems in the APC. I think President Muhammadu Buhari should begin to look at legacies he is going to leave behind. The right man for the job should be sought out.”

According to Garba, APC should enforce a debate among those seeking to occupy the position of leadership and draw lines that will hold them accountable. “I know for a fact that some of the contending personalities have nothing to offer for the party, but I won’t mention names. However, a keen observer should be able to make good judgments about those who have taken a step and those who may be making consultations. Fact checks should be the direction for the party.”

While speaking to a group of young Nigerians ready to come alive on the issues of leadership in the ruling party, the Yola base group at a meeting in Dugeri calls for support for the former Borno state governor, Kashim Shettima. The group which was led by Modu Ajiya, a citizen of Borno state and a Yola based businessman and politician said they are going to mobilize Nigerians to ensure a credible personality occupy the position of the National Championship of the All Progressive Congress, APC and to lead the party to victory in 2023.

Modu said, “We have come a long way and our campaign for a better Nigeria is gaining ground. Most of us are drawn from the APC youths wing both at state and National levels. We also have strong support from youths in the opposition because we have one target, which is national interest. Our calls are for our leaders in the APC National to see reasons for taking this country out of the troubled waters and to give the youths a platform to fulfill their dreams and aspirations. We see among the candidates people with the same characteristics of wanting to occupy a position without having a blueprint of what they intend to achieve for the greater majority. This has informed our call for the former Borno state governor, Kashim Shettima. This is our clarion call and we are going to mobilize the youths in APC and Nigeria to have a say about the future of this country.”

APC Chairmanship: ‘Why we are mobilizing support for Senator Kashim Shettima’ – Nigerian Youths

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The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

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Tinubu and Shettima

The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

By: Dr. James Bwala

The past two years of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have been characterized by a blend of commendations and criticisms, reflecting the complexities of governance in Nigeria. Their administration has navigated significant challenges, with both leaders striving to assert their roles amid public scrutiny and political opposition. While Tinubu’s leadership is often viewed through the lens of his extensive political experience, Shettima brings a background as a former governor and senator, contributing to the executive’s multifaceted roles in providing good governance to Nigerians. 

Despite efforts to consolidate power and implement policy initiatives, their tenure has faced notable backlash. Opposition parties have criticized frequent foreign trips by both leaders as wasteful expenditures that may detract from domestic governance priorities during times of economic hardship. These critiques underscore the delicate balance between international diplomacy and internal accountability.

Tinubu and Shettima’s journey over two years reflects a complex dynamic where achievements coexist with public dissatisfaction. Their administration continues to grapple with managing perceptions while addressing Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic issues. The discourse around their governance reveals not only policy challenges but also broader questions about leadership efficacy in contemporary Nigerian politics. 

The presidential ticket of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, initially sparked widespread debate in Nigeria due to concerns over its religious composition. Critics feared that the Muslim-Muslim ticket might exacerbate religious tensions or marginalize Christian communities. However, this apprehension has largely been countered by evidence demonstrating that the duo’s political journey has been marked by inclusivity and balanced governance. Rather than emphasizing religion, their leadership underscores competence and national unity, echoing historical precedents where shared religious identity did not hinder political success. 

Christian leaders under the National Solemn Assembly (NaSA) have publicly acknowledged a shift in perception regarding the ticket. Initial fears of religious oppression have given way to recognition of equitable representation within government appointments and policymaking processes. This evolving acceptance highlights how effective governance can transcend sectarian divides and foster national cohesion.

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Despite initial skepticism rooted in Nigeria’s complex religious landscape, the Tinubu-Shettima ticket exemplifies a promising model where leadership is defined by vision and inclusiveness rather than sectarian affiliation. Their journey thus far challenges entrenched biases against Muslim-Muslim tickets and reaffirms the primacy of competence over religion in Nigerian politics. This shift in perspective underscores the importance of evaluating political candidates based on their policies and ability to address national issues, rather than solely on their religious affiliations. 

The ongoing success of their administration serves as a testament to the potential for political unity and progress when leaders focus on shared goals rather than divisive identities. As their administration continues to navigate complex national challenges, the focus remains steadfast on economic development, security enhancement, and infrastructural growth, further reinforcing the narrative that effective leadership transcends religious affiliations. Their administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and addressing the diverse needs of Nigeria’s populace continues to dismantle preconceived notions about religious exclusivity in governance. 

The call by the Concerned Northern Muslim Ummah for President Bola Tinubu to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima with a Northern Christian as running mate in the 2027 presidential election represents a misplaced political appeal rather than an objective solution to Nigeria’s complex political dynamics. While the group frames its demand as a pursuit of religious balance and national cohesion following the contentious Muslim-Muslim ticket of 2023, such an appeal risks reducing political representation to mere religious arithmetic, potentially exacerbating divisions instead of fostering genuine unity. 

This demand can be interpreted as an expression of coalition opposition cloaked in religious rhetoric. By urging Muslim aspirants to step aside for Christian candidates, the group implicitly politicizes religion as a tool for electoral bargaining rather than promoting inclusive governance based on merit and policy considerations. Hence, while religious inclusivity is important, politicizing it in this manner undermines democratic principles and may deepen identity-based cleavages under the guise of fairness. 

The emphasis on religious identity as a primary criterion for political appointments disregards the multifaceted challenges facing Nigeria, where effective leadership and governance should ideally transcend sectarian lines. In a nation grappling with economic challenges, security threats, and infrastructural deficits, prioritizing religious identity over competence and visionary leadership could detract from addressing the pressing needs of the populace. Instead, fostering a political environment where leaders are evaluated based on their ability to address systemic issues and drive progress is crucial for Nigeria’s development trajectory.

Contrary to the antics of opposition parties, President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have demonstrated commendable leadership that is gradually placing Nigeria on a transformative path. Despite criticisms and misinformation propagated by detractors, their administration has embarked on bold economic reforms aimed at stabilizing and revitalizing the Nigerian economy. For instance, Tinubu’s decisive removal of the fuel subsidy and realignment of the multiple exchange rate have been pivotal in curbing corruption and fostering fiscal responsibility. These policies reflect a strategic vision geared towards long-term national development rather than short-term populism.

Shettima’s active engagement in international forums such as the US-Africa Business Summit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and enhancing infrastructure development. His diplomatic efforts complement Tinubu’s domestic policies by promoting agribusiness, energy innovation, and sustainable growth. Contrary to false claims suggesting Shettima’s disengagement from his duties, credible reports confirm his proactive role in advancing Nigeria’s interests abroad. Together, their leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

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2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

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2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

By: Dr. James Bwala

If it doesn’t function in SDP, how will it work in ADC? We were taught in basic school science that oil and water do not mix. If this metaphor is any indication, it describes the character and style of the trio who want President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to leave the Aso Rock Villa by May 29, 2027.

The Nigerian political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections is witnessing significant realignments, particularly with the emergence of a potential coalition involving Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (Labour Party), and Nasir El-Rufai (Social Democratic Party). This alliance aims to challenge the incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his running mate Shettima, signaling a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Despite these developments, reports suggest that Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai are losing political ground due to internal fractures and challenges in harmonizing their distinct party platforms into a cohesive coalition. The APC remains cautious but confident, downplaying the threat posed by this opposition alliance while capitalizing on its incumbency advantages. Moreover, security concerns surrounding key opposition figures like El-rufai and Peter Obi highlight systemic issues that may undermine opposition unity and effectiveness.

While the planned coalition presents a formidable challenge to Tinubu’s administration, its success hinges on overcoming ideological differences and addressing vulnerabilities within opposition ranks. The low voter turnout in previous elections also casts uncertainty on whether such coalitions can mobilize sufficient grassroots support to unseat entrenched incumbents in Nigeria’s complex political environment. 

El-Rufai was allegedly said to have run to SDP in order to be a placeholder for Atiku. However, reports breaking suggested that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State have collectively adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the official platform for their opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 Nigerian general election. According to them, this strategic alliance marks a significant realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape. These prominent figures seek to challenge the incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress (APC) party. The coalition aims to consolidate opposition forces under a unified banner, thereby enhancing their electoral competitiveness.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/the-plight-of-farida/

They thought they had found good ground in the SDP, setting their political balls rolling. But we learned of numerous problems and the infighting amongst them that informed new decisions, which they are claiming realignment. Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has unequivocally declared that he will not withdraw his candidacy in favor of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. This statement marks a significant stance within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, especially considering Atiku’s prominence as a leading figure in the People’s Democratic Party. Adebayo’s refusal to step down reflects his commitment to offering an alternative political vision through the SDP, highlighting the increasing fragmentation and diversification of political competition in Nigeria.

By maintaining his candidacy despite pressure to consolidate opposition forces behind Atiku Abubakar, Adebayo emphasizes the importance of ideological independence and electoral contestation. This dynamic also points to potential challenges within opposition politics, where coalition-building efforts may face resistance from emerging parties seeking distinct platforms. Consequently, Adebayo’s position could influence strategic alliances and voter alignments ahead of Nigeria’s critical 2027 elections. 

The ADC, established in 2005 and officially registered by Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2006, has gained renewed relevance through this high-profile adoption. Historically endorsed by influential leaders such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2018, the ADC now serves as a viable platform for opposition collaboration. Reports indicate ongoing efforts to restructure and strengthen the party’s organizational framework to support this coalition effectively. This development underscores an effort to create a level playing field for all political actors irrespective of their origins within Nigeria’s multi-ethnic context.

While official public announcements remain forthcoming, insider sources confirm that this coalition reflects a shared commitment among Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai to present a formidable alternative to APC dominance. However, the political dynamics involving Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai exemplify the metaphor of oil and water—elements inherently incompatible and resistant to blending. Their divergent ideologies, regional interests, and leadership styles generate tension within any coalition they form, resulting in inherent cracks that undermine unity. This fragmentation fosters uncertainty among supporters and stakeholders, weakening the coalition’s overall cohesion and strategic direction. Such internal discord often manifests as conflicting policy priorities and public disagreements that erode trust both within the alliance and among the electorate.

I believe that the inability of these leaders to reconcile their differences jeopardizes their collective political objectives. The coalition’s instability not only diminishes its bargaining power but also opens avenues for opposition forces to exploit these divisions. Consequently, this loose ground hampers effective governance planning and implementation, reflecting broader challenges in Nigerian politics where heterogeneous interests struggle to find common ground. Therefore, without deliberate efforts towards genuine compromise and collaboration, coalitions involving Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

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How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

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VP Kashim Shettima

How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s international engagements have significantly elevated Nigeria’s profile among progressive nations. Through strategic diplomacy and active participation in global forums, Shettima has positioned Nigeria as a proactive contributor to international development and security initiatives. His efforts in fostering bilateral relations with key countries have enhanced economic cooperation, attracting foreign investment critical for Nigeria’s growth.

Shettima’s focus on addressing transnational challenges such as terrorism and climate change aligns Nigeria with global priorities, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to sustainable development. By advocating for collaborative solutions, he underscores Nigeria’s role as a responsible stakeholder in regional stability and environmental stewardship. These engagements not only boost Nigeria’s diplomatic leverage but also create avenues for technological exchange and capacity building.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/2027-despite-fake-news-and-misinformation-tinubu-and-shettima-are-not-deterred-by-the-antics-of-the-coalition/

The VP’s diplomatic activities serve as a catalyst for Nigeria’s integration into the community of progressive nations. His leadership exemplifies how effective international engagement can translate into tangible socio-economic benefits at home while projecting a positive national image abroad. Between 2023 and 2025, Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima actively engaged in international collaborations aimed at fostering innovation and policy development within Africa. In 2023, Vice President Kashim Shettima played a significant role in advancing Nigeria’s international engagements, particularly through fostering collaborations between the Nigerian government and global academic institutions. A notable instance was his meeting with a delegation from the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa and the London School of Economics’ Philanthropy and Global Engagement division held in Lagos and Abuja. This engagement centered on partnership opportunities with Nigeria’s newly launched Presidential Initiative for Innovation, Policy Evaluation, and Research (PIIPER), which aims to enhance policy development through rigorous research.

During this interaction, VP Shettima underscored the critical importance of bridging academia and government to address Africa’s political economy challenges effectively. His approach reflects a broader strategic vision to leverage international expertise in innovation and policy evaluation to promote sustainable development within Nigeria. By championing such collaborative frameworks, Shettima’s international engagements in 2023 contributed to positioning Nigeria as an active participant in global knowledge exchange networks essential for national growth.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

Notably, in 2024, Shettima played an instrumental role in facilitating dialogues between Nigerian policymakers and international financial institutions, aiming to secure funding and technical support for various developmental projects across the continent. These dialogues were crucial in aligning Nigeria’s fiscal strategies with international best practices, thereby enhancing the nation’s capacity to implement impactful economic reforms. These efforts not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also helped in establishing a framework for sustained economic growth and development across the region. Through these comprehensive international engagements, Shettima effectively positioned Nigeria to harness global insights and resources, fostering an environment conducive to transformative economic policy-making and regional leadership. 

The VP’s proactive engagement with international stakeholders has been pivotal in fostering bilateral agreements that prioritize technology transfer and capacity building, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s competitive edge in the global market. This strategic positioning also opened avenues for Nigeria to play a more active role in regional peacekeeping initiatives, leveraging international partnerships to enhance security and stability across West Africa. This multifaceted approach not only strengthened Nigeria’s diplomatic ties but also underscored Shettima’s commitment to leveraging international collaboration for domestic benefit.

In 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima significantly enhanced Nigeria’s international profile through strategic engagements aimed at attracting investment and fostering development partnerships. At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Shettima actively promoted Nigeria as a promising destination for investors by highlighting key infrastructure projects such as the coastal highway and West African gas pipeline, which exemplify President Tinubu’s modernization agenda. 

By countering prevailing negative perceptions about Nigeria and Africa, he sought to reposition the country within the global economic landscape. Furthermore, his participation in high-level discussions with African leaders like South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored a commitment to regional collaboration and leadership cohesion on international platforms. 

Shettima’s advocacy extended beyond economic diplomacy into human capital development during the 2025 World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings. 

He emphasized the importance of data-driven policies under Nigeria’s Human Capital Development 2.0 strategy, advocating for sustained political will and equitable investment in people rather than solely natural resources. His calls for enhanced international collaboration aimed at improving data collection mechanisms reflect a nuanced understanding of policy implementation challenges and highlight his focus on inclusive growth strategies. Collectively, these engagements demonstrate Shettima’s multifaceted approach to positioning Nigeria as both an investment hub and a nation committed to sustainable human development.

* * James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja. 

How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

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