By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Presidency has denied the alleged cold war between President Bola Tinubu and his deputy, Senator Kashim Shettima.
The Presidency also said that in the history of Nigeria’s Presidency, no Vice President has enjoyed the total confidence and full support of his principal like Shettima.
These were contained in a tribute by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Mr Stanley Nkwocha, to mark Senator Shettima’s 58th birthday anniversary.
Nkwocha, in the tribute titled “VP Shettima @ 58: A boss, mentor, and quintessential leader,” debunked the insinuations in some quarters that Tinubu’s government has sidelined the Vice President.
While heaping accolades on the Vice President’s leadership qualities and statesmanship, Nkwocha said, “For me, therefore, as the Vice President celebrates his 58th birthday, it is more than celebrating a number.
“It is more for me the opportunity and moment to reflect on his remarkable leadership qualities, which have endeared him to millions of Nigerians, contrary to some mendacious narratives about an imaginary and non-existent marginalisation of the Vice President, as well as pockets of tendentious mudslinging and smear campaigns targeted at mischaracterisation and projection of illusory strife in the presidency.
“Throughout his political career, Senator Shettima has consistently demonstrated the attributes of an effective leader, inspiring hope and progress at every level he has served. Serving under him as a Senior Special Assistant to the President (Office of the Vice President) has been an extraordinary privilege. This experience has profoundly impacted my life and career.”
Continuing, he said, “In his four-fold shot at public service positions—commissioner, Governor, Senator, and now Vice President—Shettima has demonstrated what is possible when a leader prioritizes the majoritarian principle (the greatest good for the greatest number) over narrow, pedestal, and selfish interests.”
On the alleged no-love loss between the President and his deputy, Nkwocha said, “For those peddling ludicrous conspiracy theories of a fictional rift in the presidency which, according to the schemers, has led to Senator Shettima being sidelined and stripped of his roles as Vice President, here is also an opportunity to know the facts.
“In the history of Nigeria’s Presidency, no Vice President has enjoyed the total confidence and full support of his principal like Shettima. In return, his loyalty to his boss, President Tinubu, as attested by well-meaning Nigerians who have been keeping tabs on the goings-on in the presidency, is absolute and unalloyed.
“In a political landscape where loyalty is often tested, Vice President Shettima stands out as a beacon of dedication and commitment to his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His unwavering support and teamwork demonstrate a refreshing shift towards harmonious collaboration, setting a positive tone for their administration.
“VP Shettima’s recent praise for President Tinubu is heartfelt and genuine. He describes him as a “good soul” and a leader Nigerians can trust. He has consistently demonstrated his loyalty through his words and actions, showcasing a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
“Unlike previous presidencies, which were mired in protracted public disagreements between vice presidents and their bosses, VP Shettima’s approach is a welcome change. He has proven himself a true partner to President Tinubu, working tirelessly to support his initiatives and vision for Nigeria.
“The illogical conspiracy theories of the VP being side-lined peddled recently are the direct opposite of what is happening here in Aso Rock. As President Tinubu’s administration continues to take shape, there’s no gainsaying that one key player who has been making waves is Vice President Shettima.”
He said that since assuming office, Shettima has brought a unique blend of experience, expertise, and energy to support the Renewed Hope Administration.
He said, “His background in banking and finance has proven invaluable to his boss in shaping the administration’s economic policies. His advocacy for fiscal discipline, investment in critical infrastructure, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has helped stimulate economic growth and development.
