National News
VP SHETTIMA DIDN’T DISPARAGE NORTHERN MUSLIMS
VP SHETTIMA DIDN’T DISPARAGE NORTHERN MUSLIMS
By: Abiola Sola
Below is true context-
Reports of Shettima’s Appeal for Southern Senate President in Context
During an interactive session with senators campaigning for the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Barau Jibrin to lead the 10th Senate, yesterday, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the nation’s current political structure and made a case for the emergence of a Southern Christian and a Northern Muslim as the fairest balance to promote inclusivity at the centre.
Vice President Shettima’s statement was motivated by a profound awareness of the divisive factors within our great nation and was in harmony with the governing party’s pledge to ensure inclusivity across all regions and among all groups. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has wholeheartedly reassured the country of his dedication to providing every group with equal representation, which has resonated with the Vice President who shares the same commitment to this honourable endeavour.
Unfortunately, the Vice President’s remarks during the parley with the senators, yesterday, have been stripped of context and mischievously circulated as an attempt to minimize the suitability of Muslim contestants in the race for the Senate leadership. The remarks have not only been taken out of context but also misinterpreted to suit an agenda that sabotages our collective bid for unity.
What Vice President Shettima advocated during the meeting was that, considering Nigeria’s President and Vice President are Muslims, it would not be ill-advised for the lawmakers to choose a non-Muslim contestant, even if against a more qualified Muslim option, in order to achieve balance. It is alarming that such an unambiguous plea has been unfairly misconstrued to imply that the Vice President said the most incompetent Christian candidate is superior to a Muslim candidate. One can understand why this absurd interpretation would be found distressing and hijacked by those with a malicious agenda to push.
Vice President Shettima’s position reflects the stance of the APC, which has not only assigned the leadership of the House of Representatives to the North-West but has also designated the position of Deputy Senate President to be held by the same region. At the time of the Vice President’s remarks, approximately three contenders for the Speakership race had withdrawn their candidacy to support the candidate from the North-West. This well-considered balancing strategy aimed to mitigate the potential for crisis within the country, particularly by those anticipating the domination of leadership from the same religious faith in all branches of government as a signal.
It would be illogical for the Vice President, who is himself a Muslim and an essential member of the community, to second-guess the competence of fellow Muslims in a nation headed by a Muslim President who has demonstrated unmatched leadership qualities, on the strength of which they were elected under the banner of the APC last February.
The Vice President wishes to distance himself from the wrong and dangerous inferences drawn by the public from his remarks. While some are made innocently and without mischief, there are entities that have seized on the story to cause further chaos that transcends the realm of power politics. This weaponization of our divisions is why the Vice President appeals for inclusivity to prevent any agenda designed to undermine the new government and Nigeria as a whole.
Before the media interface, the Vice President became aware that some entities and individuals were covertly pushing for Muslim leadership of the National Assembly with the sole aim of using the instance to legitimize their grievances against the Nigerian state and to prove to their communities that they have been marginalized and must rise to cause chaos. This sheds light on the paradoxical situation where the same lawmakers who opposed a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket are now actively campaigning for political arrangements that would result in Muslims occupying all the highest four or five positions in the country.
The covert intent of their actions is evident to astute observers of our politics. This is the dimension to which our politics has descended, a dimension that does not align with President Tinubu’s and the APC’s vision of a Nigeria for all, which is the promise that propelled this government to power even when some interest groups attempted to mischaracterize the APC ticket.
The senators who met with the Vice President are known as the Stability Group, a group of 77 patriots who have signed up for the Akpabio/Barau ticket and believe the pair would represent the interests of the nation and the party. The group is neither an ethnic nor religious group but a collection of well-intentioned senators with a convincing solution to Nigeria’s stability dilemma, as their name implies.
The Vice President remains grateful to the media outlets that have seen through the mischaracterization and have been able to provide context to those who missed it. We are at a critical point in our nation and cannot afford to lose our focus because of mischief-makers obsessed with starting a fire where there is none. Vice President Shettima remains grateful to those who have read beyond newspaper clickbait and those who have given him the benefit of the doubt and remain allies for the betterment of the country.
Abiola Sola,
Director of Information,
Office of the Vice President,
The Federal Republic of Nigeria.
VP SHETTIMA DIDN’T DISPARAGE NORTHERN MUSLIMS
Christmas: VP Shettima Assures Citizens Of FG’s Commitment To Their Welfare
*** Says national security, economic transformation remain President Tinubu’s priorities
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of the federal government’s dedication to national security, economic transformation, and welfare of the citizens.
In a Christmas message on Wednesday, the Vice President said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in its focus on these critical areas, as the country looks forward to the dawn of a new year.
He said, “In these times of economic transformation, I want to assure you that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.”
Vice President Shettima particularly urged the citizens to imbibe the virtues of national unity during the yuletide season.
“Nigeria’s diversity remains our greatest strength. Let us avail ourselves of the time provided by the holiday season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us across all faiths and regions,” he said.
Senator Shettima assured Nigerians of the continued vigilance of the nation’s security forces, noting that “our brave security personnel will continue to work round the clock during this festive period to keep us safe.”
He said enhanced security measures have been put in place to protect the citizens during the holiday period.
“The relevant agencies have been mobilized to ensure your safety and comfort on all major routes,” he stated, urging travelers to remain vigilant.
VP Shettima expressed optimism about the nation’s trajectory in the coming year, saying, “I am filled with hope and optimism about Nigeria’s future. Together, we will build a more prosperous and united nation.
“To our young people, you are the backbone of our nation. The Renewed Hope administration is implementing various initiatives to create opportunities for you to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s development,” he added.
Christmas: VP Shettima Assures Citizens Of FG’s Commitment To Their Welfare
GEAR UP FOR GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES
By: CHIVIR JOEL
Newly decorated officers of the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps (NAIC), have been told to gear up for greater responsibilities ahead. The Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), at he investiture ceremony which held on 24 December 2024, the Director, Foreign Liaison Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), Brigadier General Ojogbane Adegbe, gave the charge as he urged newly promoted senior officers of the Corps to step up their game and take on greater responsibilities.
Speaking at the investiture ceremony held at the Brigadier General AU Kuliya Auditorium, Headquarters NAIC, Brigadier General Adegbe emphasized the importance of hard work, diligence and perseverance in their new roles. “I am going to charge you to work hard and be at your best,” Brigadier General Adegbe said. He reminded the officers that their career progression began the day they were commissioned and their promotion is a call to greater challenges and responsibilities. He highlighted the need for continuous self-development, encouraging them to take courses in cyber security and other areas to remain indispensable.
Earlier, the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army), Major General Thompson Ugiagbe who was represented by the Brigadier General David Umaru congratulated the officers on their well-deserved promotions. He expressed confidence in their ability to meet the demands of their new ranks and charged them to be diligent in discharging their duties. He encouraged them to develop their subordinates, as that is the only way NAIC can grow. He also reminded the officers that while the journey ahead is filled with hurdles, their expertise and commitment will see them through.
The event was graced by Brigadier General YU Diri, the Director Psychological Operations DIA, Brig Gen AD Yusuf, the Chief of Staff HQ NAIC among other senior officers of the NAIC, friends and families of the decorated officers.
The event was climaxed with a group photograph.
GEAR UP FOR GREATER RESPONSIBILITIES
National News
ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE
ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE
By: Kabiru Ali
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed that the sacred duty of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty is entrusted only to individuals who demonstrate exceptional traits and abilities. He made this assertion today, 21 December 2024, while serving as the Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer at the Passing Out Parade for Basic Military Training Course 44/2023, held at the Military Training Center (MTC), Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Kaduna.
Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar commended the recruits for their perseverance and dedication, emphasising the transformative nature of their training. “Your training was deliberately challenging, moulding you into warriors, tradesmen, and leaders with courage, discipline, and resilience,” he said. “You are now a vital part of the Nigerian Air Force’s mission to safeguard our nation’s sovereignty.”
The CAS urged the newly inducted airmen and airwomen to uphold NAF’s core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence in all they do. He emphasized their responsibility to remain vigilant, respect civilians, and adhere strictly to rules of engagement and social media guidelines, noting that their actions now directly reflect on the esteemed image of the NAF. In his words; “I urge you to operate within the rules of engagement as enumerated in the Code of Conduct for Armed Forces Personnel involved in internal security operations. Respect and protect the innocent and law-abiding civilians whom you are paid to defend. Treat them with respect and protect their rights, as we build a nation where no man is oppressed.”
Air Marshal Abubakar also underscored the pivotal role the new recruits will play in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, noting that many will be deployed to operational theatres and internal security operations. He urged them to embrace opportunities for continuous training and self development to enhance their professional growth and operational effectiveness. The CAS stated, “You are therefore called to a life of selfless service, and the efforts you make on the field will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Nigerian Air Force, strengthening the security of our nation, and ensuring its continued prosperity.” He further added, “Some of you will subsequently be deployed to operational theatres or internal security operations to contribute your quota to our national security.”
The CAS expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to addressing the operational, logistical, and welfare needs of the NAF. He remarked, “The President’s steadfast support enables us to perform our duties to the highest standards in service to our nation. I assure Mr President of our unalloyed loyalty and total commitment to his Agenda for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.” He also acknowledged the hospitality and support of the Governor and people of Kaduna State, as well as the collaboration of other security agencies in fostering a conducive environment for training.
The ceremony celebrated the successful completion of 6 months of intensive training by 1,190 airmen and airwomen. This latest batch of trainees were commended for their resilience, discipline, and determination in meeting the high standards required to join the NAF. The event was attended by dignitaries, families, and representatives from various security agencies. It also served as an occasion to recognise the efforts of the Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command and the Commandant of the Military Training Centre, whose commitment to high-quality training was pivotal in shaping the recruits into capable airmen and airwomen.
As the newly inducted airmen and airwomen embark on their careers, they are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and dedication in service to Nigeria. The ceremony concluded with a resounding call for them to wear their uniforms with pride, serve with honour, and contribute to the peace and security of the nation. Immediately after the elaborate parade, an Oath Taking Ceremony was held where the new airmen and airwomen pledged their absolute loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The CAS, before departing Kaduna State, took the opportunity to assess the progress of construction work on the new Air Force Secondary School (Day School). He also commissioned a newly constructed classroom block dedicated to children with special needs at the NAFOWA Little Angels Nursery and Primary School. The project was built by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association under the leadership of its National President, Architect Dr Rakiya Abubakar.
ONLY THE BEST OF THE BEST SHOULD DEFEND OUR NATION – CAS AT BMTC 44 PASSING OUT PARADE
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