Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged the National Assembly to embrace its sacred responsibility of leadership and prioritize national unity and development over political divisions and partisan interests.
He made this call on Monday during an Iftar hosted by President Bola Tinubu for the leadership and members of the House of Representatives at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the president, Shettima emphasized the importance of humility and shared commitment to progress in fulfilling the duties of lawmakers.
“In the end, history will not judge us by the number of personal battles we fought against one another, but by the bridges we were able to build together. We are gathered here this evening not as adversaries in a contest for power but as partners in the noble task of nation-building,” Shettima said.
Reflecting on the significance of Ramadan, which coincides with the Lenten season, Shettima called for deep introspection and a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s unity. He said, “This sacred month of reflection and renewal reminds us to choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict, and dialogue over discord. What binds us as a nation is far greater than what divides us.”
The vice-president also commended President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a “man of vision and inclusivity.” He added, “In President Tinubu, you have not just a leader you can trust, but a leader who trusts you. He sees you as stewards of our democracy, as voices of the people, and as partners in our shared aspiration to build a better Nigeria.”
Shettima highlighted the government’s economic policies, noting that they were already yielding results. “We are now on the path to sustained economic growth, and with perseverance, we will create a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive,” he stated.
The vice-president further lauded the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and the leadership of the House for fostering harmony within the legislature. “There can be no development without peace, and there can be no peace without development. The unity within the House is a testament to our collective resolve to move Nigeria forward,” Shettima concluded.
