ABUJA, NIGERIA — The All Progressives Congress has joined family, friends, and political associates in celebrating Vice President Kashim Shettima on his 60th birthday, commending his selfless service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development.
The party described the Vice President as a true statesman whose contributions to nation-building, both as former Governor of Borno State and as Vice President, have left an indelible mark on the country’s political landscape. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the APC praised Shettima for his dedication to public service and his role in advancing the party’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria.
Born on September 2, 1966, Shettima has had a distinguished career spanning academia, banking, and politics. He served as Governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019, a period marked by the Boko Haram insurgency that devastated the North-East. Despite the security challenges, Shettima was widely commended for his leadership during the crisis, implementing policies aimed at stabilizing the region and supporting victims of the insurgency. His administration was also credited with prioritizing education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in the state.
In 2023, Shettima was elected Vice President on the APC ticket alongside President Bola Tinubu. His tenure has been characterized by his advocacy for economic diversification, youth empowerment, and inclusive governance. Shettima has also been a vocal advocate for the development of the North-East region, using his position to draw attention to the challenges facing the area and to push for policies that would accelerate its recovery and growth.
The APC statement described Shettima as “a symbol of resilience and dedication,” adding that his journey from academia to the highest levels of governance is an inspiration to many Nigerians. The party also commended his loyalty to the APC and his role in strengthening the party’s structures across the country.
Shettima’s 60th birthday has attracted tributes from across the political spectrum, including President Bola Tinubu, who praised his deputy for his “steadfastness and vision.” The President noted that Shettima’s contributions to the administration had been invaluable and expressed confidence that he would continue to serve the nation with distinction.
As Shettima marks this milestone, many Nigerians will reflect on his journey and his contributions to the country’s development. His supporters have described him as a “leader of integrity” and a “quiet achiever” whose work often speaks louder than words. The celebrations are expected to continue throughout the week, with family, friends, and associates paying tribute to a leader who has dedicated his life to public service.
