Politics
APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno

APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno
By: James Bwala
While I was trying to answer the question about the emergence of two former governors from my state contesting for the APC National Chairmanship position, I told a colleague, who put the question to me that, people supporting faces appearing on the pages of newspapers and on Facebook who are aspiring for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC seemed to be pointing to one direction except the case for Borno state where these two candidates are coming.
Already this has put some people on the fence, who do not understand politics or those who feel they must come clean on both sides. These people seemed to be on the line but to choose and support between two great sons, who had contributed immensely for the growth and development of Borno in their capacities as governors at different times, they have governed the state remains an apocalypse. Ask any neutral person to choose between the two and he would drag the words.
Questions and rumour making the round about their aspiration for the National Chairmanship position of the All Progressive Congress, APC suggested or rather informed my writing of this piece. The mute at either camp has put Borno on the focus and bad politicians have started bringing bad politics to play. But I feel this is not what people should be looking out for. We have had a fair share of differences but politics is politics. This piece may also be speaking the minds of many Borno citizens as I understand from my interaction with few.
I believe the onus is on these two great citizens to inspire courage towards delivering justice, peace, equity and understanding among politicians and to change narratives in the polity of the country if elected. The onus also is on them to demonstrate leadership uncommon as both of them are coming with a magnitude of experience in leadership and administration of people, material and resources. To have them two coming from a state puts Borno at advantage of producing the next National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress.
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Speaking on how Borno people will make a choice between the two however is putting a test between courage and responsibility. “The choice may rather be an unfortunate one at this time because it shows no oneness amongst the people and that is not what Borno state is known for.” As observed by an elder whom I would not mention here.
I have also heard from many of my kinsmen just like the Biblical story of some for Apostle Paul and others for Barnabas but Borno is one and dividing the state along political lines sends streaming lines of cold water running down my spine. It also reminded me of the saying that a divided house cannot stand. This is true as many have come to believe so. But I did not consider this a bad omen looking at it from a political angle if it is to be played along the path of the great Waziri Ibrahim.

“I like Kashim Shettima for his intelligence and oratory.” someone had said, “For me, Modu Sheriff will make a good Leader here, APC needs the rocky type.” Another person said. In all my discussions both Kashim Shettima and Modu Sheriff seemed to be the answer from different perspectives and views of the people, which I hope to unveil as the days draws by. However, one thing remains certain; there cannot be two captains in a ship.
While I speak with many of my kinsmen, friends, associates, colleagues and bystanders I engaged while putting this piece, I also find this to be an all-important puzzle on the political atmosphere brewing. This too will be a story for another day and I wouldn’t want to conclude at this time because surprises keep happening on political thresholds. I keep reminding myself that these are the possibilities politics provides for people. I have no doubt about the two gentlemen trying to sort out their dreams to kick the red button on this national calling. It may be a plus for Borno state on the other hand.
But a fight, I mean a political fight between a supposedly political godfather and political godson should not be presented as horrific as some rumours making the rounds seemed to have been suggesting. Rather it is to be an interesting phenomenon in the entire game called politics. Only the susceptible feels hurt, shifts blame and castigate one another in trying to win favour from this side or that side.
For eight years, I have worked with Modu Sheriff as governor of Borno state and equally worked another eight years with Kashim Shettima. Both of them for me as a Journalist are great inspiration and subject of research in political studies. They have all made their marks as governors of Borno state taking on progressively from one point to another to make the state what it is today and I believe they still have much to offer Borno state and its citizens in their current struggles.
Someone earlier today asked me about the question of Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima coming to edge out their political stamina on the battlefield for the seat of the National Chairmanship of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC. I told him they are both progressive. And sincerely this is my opinion as a Journalist. If I were to be a politician perhaps my answer would have been different.
For many politicians, speaking in this context particularly for those who have had relationships with both Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima, the choice depends on how deeply they have been involved either with Modu Sheriff or Kashim Shettima. But at this point, the choice will have to be made either for Modu Sheriff or Kashim Shettima. That was my own explanation.

Even for the governor of Borno state, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the two former governors: Modu Sheriff and Kashim Shettima remain two angels God prepared from heaven to shape his ways. I was very close at a point in time when he came across both of them and on each encounter fortune smiled on him putting him in a very difficult position as many politicians in Borno state who had at various occasions been led by fate and faith to find favour from these two great sons of Borno.
Sheriff is Rocky as they would say and Shettima an Orator, either of them is a Captain in his own right but politics will be played and there must be a winner in the end. For me, it is Borno against the rest of the states – Zamfara, Nassarawa, and Benue for those I could remember and have written about. There is nothing poetic about political battles as being suggested between Sheriff and Shettima. Either side of the coin is a good advantage for Borno if the two roll it out well in their campaigns. The Onus is on them to make Borno state proud.
James Bwala writes from Abuja
APC National Chairmanship: The Onus on two great sons of Borno
Politics
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes

VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s political trajectory exemplifies the intricate relationship between fate and personal attributes, highlighting how individual qualities can intersect with circumstantial forces to shape leadership outcomes. While fate may position an individual within certain historical or social contexts, it is Shettima’s personal attributes—such as resilience, rhetorical skill, and strategic vision—that have enabled him to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape effectively. His public discourse often underscores courage and transformative leadership, which not only reflect his innate qualities but also respond adaptively to the demands of his environment.
Shettima’s role as vice president underlines a dynamic interplay where destiny provides opportunities that are actualized through character and action. His rhetoric aligns with broader national narratives about change and legacy, suggesting that while fate may offer a stage, it is personal agency that directs the performance. This synthesis between predetermined circumstances and individual capability illustrates how leaders like Shettima embody both historical contingency and self-determination in their public roles.
In this way, Shettima’s journey not only reflects personal triumph over the vicissitudes of fate but also serves as a testament to the profound impact of character-driven leadership on national development. In essence, Shettima’s leadership journey illustrates how the interplay between fate and personal attributes can transcend individual success to foster collective progress within a nation. This intricate balance between destiny and personal attributes not only shapes Shettima’s political narrative but also inspires a broader discourse on leadership in Africa, where history and individual agency frequently converge to redefine societal trajectories.
This narrative not only resonates deeply within the context of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape but also offers a blueprint for emerging leaders across the continent, reinforcing the idea that true progress is born from the synergy between predetermined paths and deliberate, character-driven choices. By examining Shettima’s career, one can discern how his personal attributes—resilience, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to public service—have consistently aligned with historical moments of opportunity.
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This alignment is further evidenced by Shettima’s strategic initiatives, which often capitalize on pivotal historical junctures to advance national interests and enhance socio-economic stability. Shettima’s ability to navigate complex political landscapes with a blend of prudence and vision underscores the essential role of adaptive leadership in times of national transformation. His journey illustrates how personal characteristics can serve as both a catalyst and a compass, guiding individuals through the intricate dance of destiny and determination to achieve impactful leadership outcomes.
As Shettima’s narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that his personal journey is a testament to how intrinsic qualities can steer one towards pivotal roles in shaping a nation’s trajectory. In reflecting on Shettima’s career, one observes how his intrinsic resilience and strategic foresight have intertwined with the broader currents of fate to place him at the forefront of national leadership. This interplay between personal attributes and destiny not only underscores Shettima’s rise but also highlights the broader narrative of leadership in contexts marked by complexity and change.
This dynamic interaction between individual traits and the unfolding of fate is not only critical in understanding Shettima’s ascent but also serves as a broader commentary on leadership within complex political environments. Shettima’s leadership journey, as articulated in his rhetoric, underscores the transformative power of individual courage and strategic vision in navigating the complexities of national governance. Moreover, his rhetoric often reflects the deep-seated belief that courage and strategic vision are indispensable in crafting a legacy that resonates with both contemporary and future generations.
Kashim Shettima’s speeches often encapsulate the notion that leadership is not merely a position of power but a profound responsibility to align personal strengths with the nation’s aspirations, ultimately crafting a narrative that resonates with both the present and posterity. Through his speeches, Shettima consistently emphasizes the importance of aligning personal integrity with national goals, thereby reinforcing the notion that effective leadership is deeply rooted in a harmonious blend of fate and personal conviction. In doing so, he not only embodies the essence of leadership but also illustrates how personal conviction can be a guiding force in the intricate dance between destiny and self-determination. This intricate interplay between personal determination and the larger forces of destiny is vividly captured in Shettima’s portrayal of President Tinubu’s leadership, where bold economic reforms are seen as pivotal moments that redefine national identity.
Shettima’s depiction of Tinubu’s leadership serves as a testament to the belief that the convergence of personal attributes and fate can indeed propel a nation towards a redefined future, where courageous decisions become the cornerstone of historical transformation. Shettima’s perspective underscores the belief that the fusion of personal attributes such as courage and strategic foresight with the inexorable pull of fate can lead to transformative change. By weaving his narrative with elements of courage and strategic foresight, Shettima not only highlights the transformative potential inherent in the convergence of personal attributes and fate but also inspires a collective vision for progress that transcends individual ambitions.
Indeed, Shettima’s narrative finds resonance in the broader context of leadership, where the alignment of individual virtues with the nation’s destiny becomes a catalyst for enduring change. In essence, Shettima’s articulation of Tinubu’s leadership is not merely a reflection of personal admiration but rather an acknowledgment of the profound impact that decisive leadership can have on the trajectory of a nation.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
Politics
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership

Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s leadership underscores a narrative of courage and historical significance. Shettima consistently portrays Tinubu as a bold and decisive leader who confronts Nigeria’s most pressing challenges head-on, particularly in economic reforms like the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate realignment. He constantly emphasized that Tinubu is “taking the bullets” avoided by his predecessors; Shettima situates the president as a transformative figure whose decisions are not merely administrative but foundational acts shaping Nigeria’s future governance.
Shettima’s discourse highlights the interplay between courage and legacy. He suggests that Tinubu’s willingness to make unpopular yet necessary choices reflects a leadership style committed to long-term national benefit rather than short-term approval. This framing aligns with academic understandings of political rhetoric that seek to legitimize authority through appeals to sacrifice and historical destiny. In this light, Shettima positions Tinubu not only as a current leader but as an architect of history whose actions will ease burdens for future administrations.

Vice President Kashim Shettima often employs rhetoric that celebrates President Tinubu’s courage while emphasizing his role in shaping Nigerian history. By framing difficult policy decisions as acts of bravery and rewriting past leadership failures, Shettima constructs a compelling narrative that elevates Tinubu’s presidency within the nation’s political discourse. This rhetorical strategy serves both to defend contentious reforms and inspire confidence in ongoing governmental efforts toward sustainable development. Such rhetoric not only bolsters Tinubu’s image as a valiant leader but also sets the stage for a narrative where current sacrifices are deemed necessary investments for the nation’s prosperous future.
This narrative not only fortifies Tinubu’s legacy but also seeks to galvanize public support for current and future reforms by framing them as essential steps toward a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria. By portraying Tinubu as a leader who tackles challenges head-on, Shettima not only seeks to enhance public trust but also attempts to foster a collective sense of purpose and resilience among Nigerians.

Framing Tinubu’s leadership as a courageous endeavor that confronts and overcomes obstacles head-on, Shettima not only reinforces a narrative of resilience but also positions Nigeria on a trajectory toward transformative growth and stability. This portrayal of Tinubu as a transformative figure is further reinforced by Shettima’s framing of his leadership decisions as not merely necessary responses to immediate crises but as strategic moves designed to secure Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and stability. Drawing on the historical context and illustrating Tinubu’s actions as pivotal moments of courage, Shettima underscores the idea that these strategic choices are not just about immediate gains but about crafting a legacy that future generations will look back on with respect and gratitude.
In this light, Shettima’s rhetoric not only elevates Tinubu’s actions as emblematic of courageous leadership but also aims to cement his legacy as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s history. While emphasizing these transformative policies, Shettima not only paints a picture of Tinubu’s bravery in addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues but also frames these actions as essential steps in the nation’s journey towards sustainable development. His rhetoric consistently underscores the notion that Tinubu’s leadership is not only about immediate gains but also about ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for Nigeria.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric underscores this vision, portraying President Tinubu as a leader who is unafraid to confront the nation’s most pressing challenges head-on, thereby setting a precedent for future governance. By highlighting Tinubu’s willingness to make the difficult decisions that previous administrations had sidestepped, Shettima positions him as a trailblazer in Nigerian politics, not just as a leader of his time but as a transformative figure whose decisions echo through the annals of history. His speeches, often delivered with a fervor that matches the gravity of the challenges at hand, serve to rally both the government and citizens around a shared vision of progress and resilience. His words resonate with a sense of urgency and responsibility, suggesting that the bold initiatives undertaken by Tinubu are not merely political maneuvers but foundational shifts designed to safeguard the nation’s future.

His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates Tinubu’s decisive actions but also frames them as pivotal moments in Nigeria’s political narrative, reinforcing the idea that true leadership is defined by the courage to act when others hesitate. Such rhetoric not only aims to inspire confidence in current governmental strategies but also to cultivate a legacy of courageous leadership that future generations can emulate. His articulation of these themes is bolstered by the tangible outcomes of Tinubu’s policies, which have already begun to reshape the economic landscape, demonstrating the real-world impact of courageous governance.
As Shettima eloquently underscores, Tinubu’s leadership is not just about immediate gains but about laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future. In this context, Shettima’s rhetoric serves as both a testament to and a catalyst for the transformative impact of Tinubu’s leadership, illustrating how bold decisions today can redefine tomorrow’s possibilities. His consistent emphasis on the necessity of these decisions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the stabilization of the forex market, underscores a commitment to long-term national interests over short-term political gains.
Indeed, confronting these entrenched challenges head-on, Shettima argues, Tinubu is not only rewriting history but also providing a blueprint for future governance that prioritizes resilience and adaptability. His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates the present administration’s accomplishments but also serves as a clarion call for future leaders to embrace similarly bold and forward-thinking approaches.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
National News
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder

Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a decision he will never regret.
Speaking on Saturday in Uyo during a grand reception held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally sent a message to the governor, assuring him that the APC would be home to him and his supporters.

“This party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken,” Shettima declared. “Mr. President asked me to assure you personally—no one will question your place here.”
Describing Tinubu as a “bridge-builder” and “deep-rooted democrat,” the Vice President praised the president’s enduring commitment to democratic values, recalling how he stood firm during challenging political periods in Nigeria’s history.
“Few figures in our national history have given as much and demanded so little in return,” Shettima said, referencing Tinubu’s past political sacrifices.

The Vice President noted that the APC is not a party driven by media hype but by vision, merit, and loyalty. “We are not just a political platform; we are a movement,” he added.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno said he joined the APC to align with the Tinubu-led administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and fast-track the realization of key infrastructural projects, including the long-delayed Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom.
“My progressive state movement is predicated on enlightened state interest—to support Mr. President’s bold and audacious reforms,” the governor said.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, welcomed the governor and his supporters, hailing the massive turnout as a demonstration of public trust in the APC.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the significance of the governor’s defection, describing it not as just a political move but as a full-fledged “movement.” He assured Akwa Ibom citizens of the federal government’s support for development projects in the state.

Other notable speakers included Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, who commended Governor Eno’s decision, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, who declared the South-South zone’s full alignment with the federal government.
The event climaxed with the presentation of the APC flag and broom to Governor Eno, symbolizing his official welcome into the party and reaffirming the APC’s stance as a vehicle of national progress.
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
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