By Cross Udo, Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has embargoed all congratulatory advertisements in newspapers to celebrate his birthday next week.
The Vice President will turn 58 on Monday.
But in a restraining appeal yesterday, Shettima pleaded against what he described as “elaborate pageantry” to mark the day.
The Vice President instead implored family members, friends, and associates who may wish to place goodwill messages as advertisements to kindly donate such funds to charity organisations and vulnerable citizens instead.
The Vice President’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, said: “On Monday, September 2, 2024, His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, will turn 58. This exceptional day marks another landmark moment for him to reflect and gauge how much ground he has covered in his stewardship to the nation and its people as a leader and public servant.
“As it is always the tradition on special days such as this, it is not unexpected that family members, friends, and associates would want to make the day a remarkable one for him – celebrating his dedication to excellence, compassion in leadership, and commitment to teamwork in the bid to drive the nation to success and growth.
“However, the Vice President will want a manageable pageantry marking the day. Accordingly, he has appealed to his fellow compatriots, associates, and numerous well-wishers across the country to resist the desire to place congratulatory birthday advertisements on pages of newspapers or utilize paid channels to convey their wishes and greetings.”
It further said, “As this auspicious moment draws closer, VP Shettima fervently implores family members, friends, and associates who may wish to place goodwill messages as advertisements to kindly donate the funds to charity organisations and vulnerable citizens instead.
“This aligns with the commitment of the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to addressing issues of development and economic growth, as well as improving the living conditions of Nigerians.
“As he prepares to use this special moment to reflect and recommit himself to the tenets of responsive and good governance for the overall benefit of the people, the Vice President remains ever grateful for the goodwill he enjoys from Nigerians and the best wishes a great number of his well-wishers have demonstrated towards him over the years.”
