The Presidency has firmly denied any allegations of a strained relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, calling such rumors “a lie from the pit of hell.” This assertion was made in a tribute by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, on the occasion of Shettima’s 58th birthday.
Nkwocha’s tribute, titled “VP Shettima @ 58: A Boss, Mentor And Quintessential Leader,” highlighted the vice president’s remarkable leadership qualities and debunked claims that Shettima has been sidelined within Tinubu’s administration. Nkwocha emphasized that Shettima enjoys the full confidence and support of President Tinubu, a level of trust unparalleled in Nigeria’s history of vice presidents.
The tribute further noted that despite unfounded rumors of a rift, Shettima has remained a loyal and dedicated partner to President Tinubu. His contributions, particularly in the areas of economic policy and social justice, have been significant in shaping the administration’s agenda. Nkwocha praised Shettima’s commitment to fiscal discipline, support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and his advocacy for marginalized communities.
Nkwocha also dismissed the so-called conspiracy theories of a “fictional rift” in the presidency, affirming that Shettima’s relationship with President Tinubu is harmonious and collaborative. He stressed that Shettima’s approach contrasts with past vice presidents who were often at odds with their principals, highlighting the vice president’s loyalty and effectiveness in his role.
The tribute concluded by celebrating Shettima’s influence in promoting regional balance and inclusivity, particularly for the North East region, and his ongoing contributions to the administration’s vision for Nigeria.
