Politics
Maiduguri Law School: The Senate Approval and Senator Kashim Shettima’s Voice

Maiduguri Law School: The Senate Approval and Senator Kashim Shettima’s Voice
By: James Bwala
Many have applauded former Borno state governor and senator representing Borno Central at the red chamber in Nigeria’s Law making body – The National Assembly for a giant stride in putting a strong voice to ensure Maiduguri, the Borno state capital in northeast Nigeria gets a Law School in the recent approval by the senate.
NEWSng reports that, while many have agreed that Senator Kashim Shettima did very well not only for the generation today but also for unborn citizens in time to come, others have a different opinion probably based on their political differences.
Speaking on the approvals by senate, Malam Hassan Adam told NEWSng that, “This however, is not without hitches from some anti Progressive minds. But those classical clowns, we wave with our fingers as they are not worthy of our time and efforts in making ‘Borno state great again’, if I should borrow the words of Kashim Shettima when he embarked on rebuilding Borno state through setting up educational base in a state ravaged by the insurgency”.
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Indeed, at a time when citizens of Borno state are seeking safe haven elsewhere due largely to the activities of Boko Haram, Senator Kashim Shettima, then a governor, was seeking for a new future through educating the citizens. It was at that time that he came up with the idea of model schools and also nurses the idea of establishing a state University all in an effort to free Borno state from the fangs of illiteracy. It was also at that time that he carefully selects a gem among many egg heads in Borno.
According to Timothy Yakubu, a keen observer in the unfolding events in Borno, he (Kashim Shettima) was all along considering the beauty of continuity because he knew that he would have to start all these projects but time would not permit him to see it through in his time as governor. “Therefore, to achieve that even after he might have left office, there are needs for a new birth in his own character. This deliberate attitude of Kashim Shettima puts him into looking at the capable hands on ground and out of 26 eligible, an Engineer was born. He knew he could heave a sigh of relief with this choice and he did.
“Today, Borno state is celebrating the man – Senator Kashim Shettima for another achievement in the pursuit for a greater Borno state. As representative of Borno Central in the senate, Kashim Shettima was relentless in lobbying to acquire the needed support from colleagues and well-wishers. According to Kashim Shettima, he is not just a representative of the section of Borno people but of the larger Nigerian society.
“Through timely and convincing approach, Kashim Shettima was able to succeed in making Borno state part of the state to cite the six approved states to house the Law School Campuses. Indeed, it was no longer news that the senate Approves Creation of Maiduguri Law School Campus, Borno State. Thanks to Senator Kashim Shettima for being a voice to the people of Borno State, the Northeast and Nigeria as a whole.” Mr. Timothy said
NEWSng reports that, The Bill, titled: “A Bill for an Act to amend the Legal Education (Consolidation, etc) Act by establishing the campuses for the Nigerian Law School, and for other related matters” was sponsored by Kogi West Senator Smart Adeyemi. The passage of the Bill followed the adoption of the recommendation of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters that considered the Bill.
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Adamu Saleh, a commentator said that, ”The presentation Senator Kashim Shettima made at the floor of the senate on establishing the law school campus in Maiduguri was full of justifiably facts backed by intelligence and high sense of reasoning”
According to him, “Men of goodwill would not have any basis to raise objections. “Our sincere appreciation to the intelligent, humble and patriotic Kashim Shettima and all contributors to this noble breakthrough.”
Also commenting on this success, Professor Shehu Liberty of the University of Maiduguri in his post said, “Thank You Most Sincerely Distinguished Senator Kashim Shettima For Initiating the Establishment of Nigerian Law School in Maiduguri, Borno State, Which was Long Overdue. This is Indeed a Highly Commendable and Thoughtful Effort! You have proved to be a Worthy Representative of the Good People of Borno Central and Indeed Borno State. The Good People of Borno are Proud of you, your Intellectual Prowess and Great Political Sagacity! Keep the Good Work, Your Excellency sir!”
“I love your voice in the Nigerian Senate. This has added value to Borno state. You have started well and indeed we are all proud of you. You have shown influence, capacity and capability to bring the dream of bringing Borno state out of the muddy waters. You are our man any moment because we know you are always with the people.” Dr. Sani Umar wrote.
Following the senate decision on Tuesday to pass the Bill that seeks to increase the number Law School campuses from seven to 14, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele’s report reveals that the existing Law School campuses are located in Lagos (Southwest); Abuja (North Central); Yola, Adamawa State (Northeast); Kano (Northwest); Enugu (Southeast) and Yenegoa, Bayelsa State (South-South).
The additional campuses approved by the Senate are Kabba Law School Campus, Kogi State (Northcentral); Maiduguri Law School Campus, Borno State (Northeast); and Argungu Law School Campus, Kebbi State (Northwest). Others are Jos Law School Campus, Plateau State (North Central); Okija Law School Campus, Anambra State (Southeast); Orogun Law School Campus, Delta State (Southsouth) and Ifaki Law School Campus, Ekiti State (Southwest).
The Senate also approved the Yenegoa Law School Campus, Bayelsa State; Port Harcourt Law School Campus, Rivers State; and Orogun Law School Campus, Delta State for the South-South zone. In the South West, the chamber approved the Lagos Law School Campus, Lagos State; and Ilawe Law School Campus, Ekiti State. The Bwari Law School Campus, Abuja, remains exclusively for the Federal Capital Territory.
The Chairman of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the creation of the six law schools was a legislative intervention to address “the exponential increase in the number of law graduates from our universities an foreign ones, coupled with the backlog that existed over the years.”
According to the lawmaker, “existing campuses are overstretched and the infrastructures are not enough to accommodate thousands of law students graduating from the universities.”
He observed that the United States of America with a population of over 350 million people has about 237 law schools. The lawmaker noted that some countries such as Canada and Australia, with far fewer population than Nigeria, have 24 and 38 law schools for a population of about 38 million and 26 million people, respectively.
Bamidele explained that the provision for additional campuses in the six geopolitical zones of the federation was appropriate as it does not tamper with the seven existing campuses established by administrative responsibilities of the Council of Legal Education.
Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital said they are particularly happy with this development and are convinced that such a project could not have come to Borno state without a strong voice.
Maiduguri Law School: The Senate Approval and Senator Kashim Shettima’s Voice
Politics
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.

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

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.
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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.
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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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