National News

Back After Kashim Shettima Sent Us ‘Packing’

Published

2 years ago

January 5, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Back After Kashim Shettima Sent Us ‘Packing’

By Stanley Nkwocha

The mood at the Vice President’s wing of the Presidential Villa on Friday December 22, 2023, was different from what it used to be during preparations for festivities in the yuletide. On the faces of the aides and staff working in the VP’s office was a concatenation of excitement and incredulity. Even an amateur telepath would effortlessly sense the relief and exhilaration coursing through them as they discussed among themselves.

What was the excitement all about? The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, had just directed that all his aides and staff who are Christians should proceed on Christmas holidays and resume after the New Year celebrations. It was a big relief for them, especially those who had already been slated for advanced movements ahead of the VP’s official visits to some states.

The thrilling sensation in the VP’s office that weekend was however not unexpected. Such a gesture from a leader pertaining to the welfare of his workers is quite rare in this part of the globe, especially in Nigeria where aides and staff of Aso Rock Villa would have to work round the clock to maintain and sustain presidential schedules.

As an aide or staff in the seat of power, your life is no longer your own. Work-life balance doesn’t exist. You hardly have a weekend planned, entailing that you must have to cope with events of close friends and family members you will have to miss. This is apart from not seeing them more often, as you would not be at liberty to frequently take a vacation.

However, it was a completely different ball game for the 2023 yuletide, as the workers were asked to go home and celebrate the Christmas holiday with their families, courtesy of the VP’s human side of officialdom and bureaucracy. That is Vice President Shettima for you – a boss who takes the welfare of his workers seriously. He cares about life outside of work and is conscious about the things that are important to those working with him, irrespective of class and religious affiliations. He would check in to see how things are going for them.

A true example of what it means to be a servant leader, the Vice President is one of the most humble, compassionate leaders that I have personally met. He is a man who leads by example and is committed to creating a better future for the next generation.

His approach to work and style of leadership which treats the ‘ordinary’ man with the same delight as those of the ruling class are fundamentally both humane and democratic. At work, he gives you ample time to explain your expectations, as he patiently answers your questions, and he is available if you need help. He also encourages all his staff to work together, help one another and be a true team.

Yet, for himself, state governors and other top government officials, Vice President Shettima did not see the need to go on vacation when, according to him, a lot needed to be done to save the nation’s economy. At the 138th meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) which was held on December 21, 2023, he told council members to shelve the idea of vacation and concentrate on issues of governance with a view to easing the burden of the citizens.

“As the year draws to a close, none of us in this chamber should anticipate a vacation. I tend to think so because upon our shoulders rests the weight of responsibilities from which we cannot escape. We are returning to be judged by the promises we made to be here,” he told the NEC members suggestively.

The message here was simple and direct: as public office holders, members of NEC should realise that there is no time for revelries and merriment because ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’

At the national level alongside his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a seasoned democrat, Kashim Shettima is replicating the same leadership direction required by his Boss as manifested during his visit to Bende in Abia State last Friday where he unveiled the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) initiated by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

The VP declared the readiness of the Tinubu administration to put an end to the reign of terror in the South East region by those he designated as self-serving criminals working in cahoots with certain persons taking advantage of the security situation to foster their dangerous political agenda. He vowed that the administration will deploy all available resources to eliminate the purveyors of falsehoods and propaganda that have become weapons against Nigeria’s unity.

And to confirm the confidence the people of the South East have in the VP and his boss, the duo were given traditional titles. President Tinubu was conferred with Omeziri Igbo 1, while VP Shettima got the traditional title of Enyioma Ndigbo by the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Mbah.

Tacitly justifying the traditional titles conferred on the VP and his principal, chairman of the South East Governor’s Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, said Senator Shettima has demonstrated sufficient goodwill to the people of the region. “Our Vice President has shown sufficient goodwill to the people of the South East. From this part of the country, we will continue to work with the rest of Nigeria to make the country a prosperous nation for the interest of all of us for service to God and humanity,” the governor stated.

Indeed, in a country where religion, tribalism and regionalism are often used to divide and conquer, Vice President Shettima remains a staunch believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria. He has consistently demonstrated his commitment to a united Nigeria where every citizen is treated equally, regardless of their religion, tribe or ethnicity.

As we return to work following his ‘henlele dey go’ directive, one cannot but see the freshness amongst fellow colleagues who clearly are more invigorated and focused to support the Vice President in achieving the monumental set goals, targets and visions of the Tinubu administration.

May God bless us with a most prosperous new year.

Nkwocha is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President).

Back After Kashim Shettima Sent Us ‘Packing’

National News

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

Published

20 hours ago

July 18, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI:

Late ex-President Pursued Justice With Sincerity

** Says Tinubu-led FG will continue to protect dignity of the Buhari family, Katsina people

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari pursued justice with the utmost sincerity.

And in death, according to Senator Shettima, the late Buhari has also proved to the world that he was, indeed, one of the greatest sons of Africa.

The Vice President stated this on Thursday during the 3rd day prayers (Fidau) offered for the repose of the soul of the former Nigerian leader, at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.

“Ibn Khaldun reminds us that the goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

On behalf of his boss, President Bola Tinubu, VP Shettima expressed gratitude to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for the reception and kind gesture accorded to the Federal Government delegation throughout their stay in the state.

“We have been together with the governor right from London to Nigeria. He gave a warm reception and all the necessary support,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is personally pained by the loss of his friend, brother and political soulmate.

The VP assured that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, the governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Radda, said the deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of late President Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State. The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Also, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the late Buhari has an important place in the national history of Nigeria, appealing to all Nigerians to continue to pray for the repose of the soul of the former President, as reminded by Islamic clerics.

“We want to thank all of you on behalf of the 25 ministers, as directed by Mr President, for finding time to offer prayers for our President and also participate in this national assignment. Indeed, former President Buhari belongs to Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari.

Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Similarly, the Minister of State Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Abudullahi, on behalf of the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), prayed Almighty Allah to cover the grave of Buhari with mercy and admit him into Aljannah.

Islamic scholars who offered prayer include Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan Daura, among others.

Other dignitaries present at the prayer session are former Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Others are former Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai; Business Mogul, Mohammed Indimi; Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, the Emirs of Katsina, Daura and Bade; the Sultan of Maradi from the Niger Republic, and thousands of sympathisers from various walks of life.

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

National News

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

Published

3 days ago

July 16, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in a London hospital.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received the remains of the former President at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, where he inspected a military guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force jet conveying the casket arrived at 1:51 p.m.

The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was conveyed by a senior military pallbearer team led by Major General Mike Alechenu, and wheeled in a solemn procession to the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” flanked by a full military guard of honour.

Vice President Shettima had accompanied the body of the late President from London, alongside the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and close family members.

Upon arrival in Daura, the remains of President Buhari were received by a large crowd of mourners chanting praises of Allah and offering prayers for his soul. The body was later interred at his private residence in a ceremony attended by a cross-section of dignitaries and ordinary citizens alike.

President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined at the burial by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger Republic Ali Lamine Zeine, and former President of Niger Issoufou Mahamadou. Also in attendance were governors, ministers, service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from across the continent, including an envoy of the President of Chad.

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

National News

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Published

3 days ago

July 15, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria