The presidency highlights loyalty, competence, and political balance as the key reasons behind Tinubu’s choice — but challenges are on the horizon. TOYE FALEYE reports.
Loyalty Above All
President Tinubu’s choice to keep Kashim Shettima on board is primarily rooted in loyalty.
The presidency has repeatedly pointed out that Shettima’s discipline and respect for authority make him a reliable partner.
Unlike many political alliances that often turn into rivalries, Shettima has fostered a consistent, collaborative relationship with Tinubu, ensuring that governance runs smoothly.
This loyalty is viewed as a fundamental pillar of the administration’s stability.
Competence and Experience
Shettima’s competence is another crucial element. His career spans academia, banking, and politics, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on governance and economic management.
As Vice President, he leads the National Economic Council, where he has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s economic reforms.
His knack for tackling complex policy challenges makes him a vital asset to Tinubu’s vision for restructuring and stabilisation.
Continuity and Stability
By keeping Shettima on board, Tinubu is sending a clear message about continuity in governance.
The Presidency is framing this choice to reassure both Nigerians and international observers that political changes won’t derail important reforms.
This sense of continuity not only strengthens the ruling party’s unity but also projects confidence as they gear up for the 2027 elections, positioning the Tinubu-Shettima duo as a steady force during these uncertain times.
Strategic Political Balance
The Tinubu-Shettima ticket was initially crafted to strike a balance between Southern and Northern political influences.
Tinubu’s solid support in the South-West pairs well with Shettima’s reach in the North-East, creating a broad appeal across the nation. By retaining Shettima, this balance is preserved, which is crucial for the APC’s electoral strength and for fostering unity among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
Shettima’s Achievements
Shettima’s accomplishments as the governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019 are key to his political persona.
His time in office coincided with the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency, yet he managed to keep the governance structures running.
He made significant investments in rebuilding schools destroyed by insurgents, expanded access to education, and launched housing and road construction projects.
His administration also focused on improving healthcare facilities and providing humanitarian aid to internally displaced persons.
Despite facing overwhelming security challenges, Shettima showcased resilience and leadership, earning a reputation as a crisis manager who could effectively balance development with emergency response.
Educational Qualifications
Shettima’s academic journey showcases his strong intellectual foundation. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Maiduguri in 1989, and then went on to earn a Master’s degree in the same field from the University of Ibadan in 1991.
He kicked off his career as a lecturer at the University of Maiduguri before making a shift into the banking sector, where he climbed the ranks to become General Manager at Zenith Bank.
This combination of solid academic training and hands-on professional experience set the stage for his future achievements in politics and governance.
Governance in Borno State
Shettima’s time in charge of Borno State was marked by his unwavering resilience amid the challenges posed by insurgency.
He dedicated himself to the reconstruction of communities ravaged by Boko Haram and prioritised reopening schools to bring back a sense of normalcy.
His administration also extended humanitarian aid to those displaced and worked tirelessly to create safe learning environments for children.
Even with the ongoing insecurity, Shettima pressed ahead with development initiatives, proving that effective governance can persist even in the toughest of times.
His capacity to lead during crises solidified his reputation as a pragmatic and determined leader.
Challenges Ahead
Tinubu’s choice to keep Shettima on board comes with its own set of challenges. The same-faith ticket, with both leaders being Muslims, stirred up controversy in 2023 and could reignite discussions about inclusivity and representation.
On the economic front, Nigerians are still facing issues like inflation, the removal of subsidies, and rising living costs, which will put Shettima’s commitment to reforms to the test.
Security remains a critical issue, and Shettima’s legacy in Borno brings with it high expectations for achieving national stability.
Meanwhile, the opposition may seize on any governance missteps to challenge the APC’s narrative of continuity and competence.
A Strategic Bet
Tinubu’s decision to keep Shettima on board is a strategic bet, mixing loyalty, skill, and a sense of political equilibrium, all while highlighting Shettima’s accomplishments and impressive educational background.
Shettima’s tenacity in Borno and his involvement in national economic reforms bolster his reputation, yet the hurdles posed by religion, the economy, and security are still significant challenges to overcome.
As Nigeria gears up for 2027, the Tinubu-Shettima alliance will be evaluated not just on its political manoeuvres but also on its capacity to bring real, positive changes to the lives of Nigerians.
