Kashim Shettima: A servant leader, responsible, committed, and loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the words of the former Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, the APC National Chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje – the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, exemplify the qualities of a servant leader, characterized by responsibility, commitment, and unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As vice president, Shettima has consistently demonstrated a leadership style that prioritizes the collective welfare over personal ambitions. His approach aligns with the principle of serving others first, ensuring that his actions support the administration’s broader goals rather than individual gain. This commitment is evident in his dedication to maintaining a unified presidential front, thereby fostering political stability within Nigeria’s complex governance landscape.

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Despite circulating rumors suggesting internal discord or delegation of Shettima’s responsibilities with a deliberate move to stir political reactions, he considers that an opportunity to prove himself more loyal. And since there is no credible evidence supporting their claims and moves, Shettima’s unwavering stand keeps confusing them. They keep writing, predicting, and casting spells for a negative reaction from the Vice President in order to achieve their goals, but these unfounded allegations contrast sharply with reports from party officials and stakeholders who affirm Shettima’s integral role and loyalty within the administration. His steadfastness was notably highlighted during recent APC meetings, where attempts to question his position triggered significant backlash from party delegates and leaders alike.

Shettima’s leadership transcends mere political symbolism; he functions as both mentor and strategist dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s democratic project under President Tinubu. His focus on achieving “the greatest good for the greatest number” encapsulates his responsible governance ethos. Ultimately, Kashim Shettima stands as a paragon of dedicated public service—responsible in duty, committed in action, and loyal in allegiance—making him an indispensable asset to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

While opponents of Vice President Kashim Shettima have consistently sought to provoke a negative reaction from him, aiming to create a rift between him and his superior, they failed. When they employed the services of seers in writing and speeches to cast a spell at the good man, they failed. Despite their persistent efforts, Shettima’s composed demeanor remains unshaken at every critical juncture. His ability to maintain calm under pressure has frustrated those who expect or desire conflict, undermining their strategies and diminishing their influence. This measured approach demonstrates not only personal discipline but also political acumen in navigating complex dynamics without succumbing to provocation.

Even when so-called prophets and apostles of doom forecast imminent clashes involving Shettima, his wisdom-driven maneuvers continue to defy expectations. Instead of engaging in confrontations that could destabilize his position or the broader political environment, he opts for strategic patience and thoughtful responses. This restraint intensifies the frustration of his detractors, who are eager for discord but repeatedly encounter steadfastness instead.

Kashim Shettima’s consistent calmness makes him akin to the North Star—an unwavering point of reference amid turmoil. His steady presence not only symbolizes stability but also serves as a powerful counter-narrative to those seeking chaos. By embodying constancy and prudence, Shettima reinforces his leadership credibility while effectively neutralizing attempts to provoke conflict.

We have learned calmness and understand loyalty from our leader. The political dynamics within the All Progressives Congress (APC) surrounding Vice President Kashim Shettima highlight a complex interplay of loyalty, strategy, and patience. The phrase “And for those of us loyal to Kashim Shettima, we shall not respond to those opposing him in the way they are expecting us to do, but we shall continue to keep them in their vomit until they completely yield to our calmness” encapsulates a deliberate approach of restrained opposition among Shettima’s supporters. Rather than engaging in overt confrontation or retaliatory tactics, this strategy emphasizes endurance and composure as mechanisms for eventual dominance and concession from opponents.

This approach is grounded in the recent tensions at an APC stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe State, where failure by key leaders to acknowledge Shettima as the vice-presidential candidate triggered protests and threats of defection. Despite such provocations, loyalists’ commitment to measured resistance rather than impulsive reaction aims at maintaining party unity while exerting pressure on dissenting factions. This method reflects a nuanced understanding of political contestation that values long-term gains through calm persistence over immediate conflict. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Kashim Shettima: A servant leader, responsible, committed, and loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

2027: Tinubu/Shettima ticket non negotiable for North East APC….. Says Dalori

By Ndahi Marama

Following the fracas that erupted when the National Vice Chairman (North East) of the All Progressives Congress, Hon Mustapha Salihu endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for second term come 2027 general elections, without mentioning the name of Vice President Kashim Shettima as running mate during the party’s Zonal Consultative Meeting held in Gombe state last Sunday, the Deputy National Chairman (DNC North) of the party, Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori said, there is no cause for alarm.

Dalori said, as the 2027 political atmosphere, alignment and realignment continues, the Tinubu/Shettima ticket remained non negotiable, pointing out that, the party has not yet found the sin committed by Senator Kashim Shettima to warrant his substitution.

The APC Chieftain stated this in an interview with our Correspondent on Monday while reacting to the chaos that ensued at the meeting soon after Hon. Salihu chose not to endorse Shettima.

Recalled that during the Zonal APC meeting, the National Chairman of the party, Hon. Umar Ganduje, the Governors of Borno, Yobe and Gombe, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) Some Ministers, national and state assembly members, Chairmen of local governments and other stalwarts from the North Eastern region who converged at the International Conference Centre, venue of the meeting in Gombe state capital have all endorsed Tinubu and Shettima to again fly the ticket come 2027.

Unfortunately, some aggrieved and loyalists of Kashim Shettima hurled chairs and other objects targeting Hon. Salihu after his speech to demonstrate their anger against his stand.

Hon. Dalori who expressed displeasure over the fracas, revealed that, if Hon. Salihu and one other influential member of the APC (Name withheld), would team up against Shettima for reason best known to them, their decision will not in any way distract or destroy the unity of the party in the zone, rather, the APC will continue to unite and become stronger not only in the North East but the country as a whole.

His words: ” I have read in various national dailies on the outcome of our APC North East/Zonal Meeting in Gombe yesterday (Sunday). Yes I agreed there was a fracas where some people felt aggrieved and hurled some objects targeting Hon. Mustapha Salihu who is the National Vice Chairman APC North East that did not mention the name of Kashim Shettima after he endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to run for second term come 2027.

“But whether Hon. Salihu did it intentionally or otherwise, I can assure all the people of the North East and Nigeria in general that there is no cause for alarm. He (Hon Salihu is entitled to his political opinion).

“This is because, as the 2027 political atmosphere, alignment and realignment continue to hit up, the Tinubu/Shettima ticket remained non negotiable. Infact, we in the ruling APC have not yet found the sin committed by Senator Kashim Shettima to warrant his substitution.

” I am very happy at the end of the meeting. Let me also commend the National Chairman of our great party, Hon. Umar Ganduje, my humble self, the Governor of Borno, Professor Babagana Umara. Zulum, his counterparts from Yobe and Gombe, Hon. Mai Mala Buni and Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) Some Ministers, national and state assembly members, Chairmen of local governments and other stalwarts of the party from the North Eastern region who converged at the International Conference Centre, venue of the meeting in Gombe state capital. All of us unanimously endorsed Tinubu and Shettima to fly the ticket come 2027. This is to enable them complete their second term as they continue to put smiles on the faces of all Nigerians.

“Yes….. unfortunately, some aggrieved and loyalists of Kashim Shettima hurled chairs and other objects targeting Hon. Salihu after his speech to demonstrate their anger against his stand. The fracas that ensued is normal in politics, sometimes, we have to agree and disagree. But let me reassure that we are on top of the situation.

“I have since expressed my displeasure over the fracas, but if Hon. Salihu and one other influential member of the APC (Name withheld), would team up against Shettima for reason best known to them, then their decision will not in any way distract or destroy the unity of the party in the zone, rather, the APC will continue to unite and become stronger not only in the North East but the country as a whole”. Dalori stated.

He therefore called on all supporters and loyalists of the party to remain calm and focused, as the leadership of the party which is supreme, will not leave no stone unturned to sustain the peace, unity and progress of the party at all levels, to ensure dividends of democracy reaches all nooks and crannies of the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led -administration.

2027: Tinubu/Shettima ticket non negotiable for North East APC….. Says Dalori

Kashim Shettima: The endorsement, the interpretations, and the strategic nuances ahead of 2027.

By: Dr. James Bwala

The not mentioning of Vice President Kashim Shettima by some speakers at the Northeast Stakeholders Meeting in Gombe should not be interpreted as a lack of endorsement for his re-election alongside President Tinubu. Rather, this strategy reflects nuanced political maneuvering within the regions. Despite some delegates naming Shettima explicitly, this did not contradict the broader consensus supporting the Tinubu-Shettima ticket for 2027. In fact, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s open endorsement of both figures underscores the region’s unified backing. Such strategic ambiguity may serve to balance regional interests and manage intra-party dynamics while maintaining public solidarity.

The absence of overt endorsements during certain speeches has fueled speculation regarding Shettima’s political fate; however, these speculations overlook key contextual factors. Politicians and stakeholders are known to employ tactical speech-making to maximize political leverage without fracturing alliances prematurely. Consequently, the overall posture at the meeting reflected a deliberate approach designed to reinforce Shettima’s candidacy indirectly while affirming loyalty to President Tinubu’s leadership. 

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The body language and the love shown by stakeholders and party youths for the VP is a clear message of endorsement. Therefore, the endorsement of Vice President Kashim Shettima by the Northeast All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders for the 2027 elections underscores his broad-based support within a critical geopolitical zone in Nigeria. This backing, articulated during a consultative meeting in Gombe, reflects confidence in Shettima’s leadership and partnership with President Bola Tinubu to advance Nigeria’s developmental agenda. The Northeast APC stakeholders specifically highlighted achievements under their administration in health, education, and empowerment initiatives as evidence of purposeful governance that merits continuity. 

Such regional endorsements are pivotal in Nigeria’s complex political landscape, where ethno-regional considerations influence electoral dynamics. The Northeast’s support for Shettima counters opposition from other zones seeking alternative candidates but demonstrates his resonance with constituents familiar with his contributions to security and socio-economic progress. Consequently, this endorsement not only legitimizes Shettima’s role as Tinubu’s running mate but also symbolizes a unified front aimed at delivering transformative leadership for Nigeria’s future. This regional backing is particularly significant given the historical context of political alliances in Nigeria, where securing support from diverse regions is crucial for electoral success. 

The endorsement signifies a strategic alignment within the APC, setting a precedent for other geopolitical zones to rally behind a leadership team that has demonstrated its capability to address Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges. This dynamic underscores a political strategy that not only consolidates regional support but also enhances the party’s national appeal. This endorsement from the Northeast serves as a testament to Shettima’s ability to bridge regional divides and foster a cohesive national agenda that aligns with the broader aspirations of the Nigerian populace. This strategic move not only consolidates Shettima’s influence within the region but also strengthens the APC’s electoral prospects by showcasing a leadership team that has consistently prioritized national unity and development. 

The Northeast’s endorsement is a calculated move that further consolidates the party’s electoral strategy, ensuring that Shettima and Tinubu are positioned as the candidates best equipped to lead Nigeria toward sustained growth and stability. Such a strategic endorsement not only bolsters the legitimacy of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket but also reinforces a narrative of continuity and progress, resonating with voters who prioritize stability and development. This momentum is further amplified by the Northeast’s recognition of tangible achievements in pivotal sectors like health, education, and empowerment under Shettima’s vice presidency, showcasing a track record that resonates with the electorate’s demand for effective governance.

This endorsement is a testament to the cohesion within the party, countering narratives of division and highlighting a unified front committed to addressing national challenges through collaborative governance. The endorsement signifies a collective aspiration to sustain the trajectory of national development, emphasizing Shettima’s role in fostering inclusive policies that cater to diverse regional needs. The backing from the Northeast APC stakeholders underscores a strategic alignment with the current administration’s vision, reinforcing a commitment to policies that prioritize security, economic growth, and social welfare across Nigeria. This endorsement not only reflects Shettima’s proven track record in governance but also signals a unified front within the party, poised to tackle the nation’s challenges head-on. Their endorsement, as articulated by key party figures, underscores the strategic importance of maintaining continuity in leadership to build on the current administration’s successes in critical sectors like health and education. 

This strategic endorsement also strengthens the perception of a government that is not only responsive but also proactive in addressing the socio-economic needs of its citizens, thereby solidifying the trust and confidence of the electorate in their leadership. This alignment with the Northeast APC stakeholders not only highlights Shettima’s regional influence but also strengthens the broader coalition needed to drive impactful reforms that resonate with the grassroots. 

This collaborative support is indicative of a political landscape that values stability and progress, ensuring that the administration remains focused on delivering on its promises to uplift all Nigerians. The collaborative efforts between the Northeast stakeholders and the central administration are expected to foster a more cohesive policy framework, one that aligns with national goals while addressing regional disparities. Such a framework is anticipated to bridge gaps in infrastructure, enhance educational opportunities, and promote equitable resource distribution, which are critical components for national development.

This united front is expected to not only enhance governance but also ensure that the developmental strides made in recent years are sustained and expanded. This collaboration, underscored by the Northeast APC’s endorsement, is a testament to the administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and development across Nigeria. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Kashim Shettima: The endorsement, the interpretations, and the strategic nuances ahead of 2027