Politics
The Politics And Tinubu’s Wishes To Shettima
By Yushau A. Shuaib
In a nation gripped by tension and political intrigue, even the simple act of celebrating birthdays and anniversaries of public figures often feels like a forgotten ritual. Yet, amid the noise of political realignments and verbal skirmishes—such as the recent fallout between former allies, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, over national security and 2027 permutations—came a moment of quiet significance: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally penned a heartfelt birthday tribute to Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Was I surprised? Not entirely. For over a year, speculation has swirled about the true nature of the relationship between Tinubu, the former Lagos governor, and Shettima, the former Borno governor. Rumours of a frosty dynamic persisted despite Shettima’s pivotal role in Tinubu’s 2023 victory—mobilising Northern support and standing firm when many doubted Tinubu’s ambition.
Although both men maintained a façade of harmony, Shettima’s visibility gradually diminished. In my May 2024 article, “Tinubu’s Presidency: Where is Senator Shettima?” I expressed concern about his limited public role since inauguration. Once known as an ebullient and assertive leader who nurtured capable successors, Shettima appeared sidelined. Key responsibilities were centralised in Tinubu’s Lagos-based “kitchen cabinet,” leaving the Vice President without a clearly defined mandate. Agencies traditionally under his purview were reassigned, and even on Northern issues, his voice seemed muted.
I warned then that marginalising such a crucial ally could come at a political cost. I advised Tinubu to re-engage Shettima and disillusioned supporters to counter perceptions of “Yorubanisation” of power and to avoid alienating the coalition that brought him victory.
Adding to this unease are whispers that Shettima may not return as Tinubu’s running mate in 2027. The speculation is fraught with religious and regional sensitivities. Replacing him with another Muslim could provoke backlash—“Another Muslim again?”—while picking a Christian, especially of Yoruba descent, may spark discontent among Northern Muslims who already feel that Christians have secured more strategic appointments in security, economy, and governance.
In this delicate balancing act, Shettima remains, to many, the bridge. His Northern roots, moderate outlook, and political resilience give Tinubu balance in a country where ethno-religious considerations still define electoral outcomes.
Against this backdrop, Tinubu’s birthday message to Shettima on September 2, 2025, carried more than ceremonial weight—it was politically symbolic. The President lauded Shettima’s courage, loyalty, and tenacity, describing him as a partner whose fresh perspectives enrich governance. He tied their partnership to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to transform Nigeria through economic reforms, strategic partnerships, and improved social services.
Most striking was Tinubu’s closing remark: “Our relationship transcends official duties. It is a bridge across regions and traditions, united in purpose and service. You remind us of what is possible when Nigeria comes first—an example worthy of emulation by those who aspire to lead.”
If sincere, this signals a potential reset—a reaffirmation of unity and mutual respect between both leaders. It offers hope for political stability and a more inclusive governance approach.
The endorsement could reset perceptions, calm speculation, and solidify Shettima’s place in the coalition ahead of 2027. For the Vice President, it is also an opportunity to reclaim his old ebullience, project leadership beyond symbolic appearances, and assert his relevance as a loyal ally in Tinubu’s administration.
As I join in wishing Vice President Shettima a happy birthday, I also hope this moment marks the start of a renewed partnership—one that embodies the spirit of national cohesion and shared purpose that Nigeria so desperately needs. Because in a country as fragile as ours, unity at the highest level is not just desirable—it is indispensable.
Yushau A. Shuaib is the author of “Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies.”
www.YAShuaib.com | yashuaib@yashuaib.com
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2027: Gov Yusuf assures Tinubu of North support for his re-election
By Zubairu Idris
Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State, has assured President Bola Tinubu of the support of Northern Nigeria for his re-election during the 2027 general elections.
Yusuf gave the assurance on Saturday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Arewa for Asiwaju (A4A) campaign office, in a statement issued by his Director-General Media and Publicity, Mr Sanusi Bature.
He said the governor expressed confidence that the North would stand behind President Tinubu in the forthcoming election.
Bature qouted his boss as saying that the A4A movement would serve as a platform for mobilising support across the Northern states and strengthening political engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Kano as the leading state with highest number of votes in northern Nigeria will Insha Allah lead all Nigerian states to ensure victory of President Tinubu with massive turnout in favour of the APC,” Gov Yusuf said.
He explained that A4A movement is aimed at coordinating support for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima said the North had demonstrated its support for President Tinubu.
He stressed that the political support must go hand-in-hand with accountability, good governance and tangible results that improve the lives of Nigerians.
The Vice President acknowledged the economic challenges facing citizens and emphasised the need for the administration to remain responsive to their concerns, while prioritising security, education, poverty reduction and economic opportunities.
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Former member of the House of Representatives, Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada, has declared his intention to contest the Kano Central Senatorial District seat, urging the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure free and fair primaries.
Sharada, who represented Kano Municipal Federal Constituency in the immediate past National Assembly, made the appeal on Thursday when he visited the APC State Secretariat in Kano to formally announce his ambition.
“I appeal to the national leadership of our great party to, for the sake of Allah (SWT) and His Prophet Muhammad (SAW), ensure fair play in our forthcoming primary election,” he said, drawing loud applause from his supporters.
Popularly known as Dan Karamin Sauro (small mosquito), Sharada said his decision was driven by a desire to contribute to the growth and development of Kano Central, leveraging his legislative experience and political connections.
“By the grace of Allah (SWT), I will be the next Senator to represent Kano Central in the National Assembly, and I promise that I will not fail my constituents,” he pledged.
He also assured of his commitment to strengthening the APC and supporting the re-election of President Bola Tinubu alongside Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to sustain ongoing developmental programmes.
Welcoming the aspirant, APC State Chairman, Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa, described Sharada as a grassroots politician who had consistently worked for the progress of his people.
Doguwa further assured that the party would provide a level playing field for all aspirants in the forthcoming primaries.
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The Katsina State Commissioner for Environment, Hamza Sule-Faskari, has resigned to contest for the Funtua Senatorial seat.
The decision was in compliance with the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for public office holders intending to contest in the 2027 elections.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the electoral body has directed all public office holders intending to contest to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
Sule-Faskari announced his decision on Monday in Katsina when he visited the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, to formally submit his resignation letter.
He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Radda, for the opportunity to serve the people as a commissioner.
The former commissioner also reaffirmed his commitment to remain loyal and continue supporting the governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sule-Faskari further thanked the people of Katsina State for the support and cooperation they have given him during his tenure as commissioner.
NAN
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