As you delve into Nigerian politics, one figure stands out as a key player in the nation’s leadership: Vice President Kashim Shettima. But who exactly is this influential statesman? In this article, you’ll discover the background, career, and political journey of Nigeria’s second-in-command. From his early days in academia to his rise through the ranks of government, Shettima’s story is one of ambition, public service, and national impact.
Understanding the Vice President’s role and background is crucial for grasping the current political landscape in Africa’s most populous country. Join us as we explore the life and accomplishments of Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s Vice President.
Functions of the Vice President of Nigeria
The Vice President of Nigeria plays a crucial role in the country’s governance. Here are some key functions of this important position:
Constitutional Responsibilities
- Acting President: In the absence or incapacity of the President, the Vice President assumes the role of Acting President, ensuring continuity in leadership.
- Chairman of the National Economic Council: The Vice President chairs this advisory body, coordinating economic planning efforts among Nigeria’s states.
- Member of the National Security Council: As a key member, the Vice President contributes to national security policy formulation and implementation.
Administrative and Diplomatic Duties
- Oversight of Government Agencies: The Vice President often oversees specific government agencies or initiatives as delegated by the President.
- Diplomatic Representation: Representing Nigeria in international forums and meetings, the Vice President plays a vital role in foreign relations.
- Policy Implementation: Working closely with the President, the Vice President helps drive the implementation of government policies and programs.
Political and Advisory Roles
- Legislative Liaison: The Vice President serves as a bridge between the executive and legislative branches, fostering cooperation and dialogue.
- Party Leadership: Often taking an active role in the ruling party, the Vice President helps maintain political alliances and support.
- Presidential Advisor: Providing counsel to the President on various matters, the Vice President offers a valuable second perspective on critical issues.
Understanding these functions helps to highlight the significance of this position in the nation’s governance structure.
Who is the Current Vice President of Nigeria?
The current Vice President of Nigeria is Kashim Shettima, who assumed office on May 29, 2023. As the second-highest-ranking official in the Nigerian government, Shettima plays a crucial role in supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and contributing to the nation’s governance.
Kashim Shettima, born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, Borno State, has had a distinguished career in both the private and public sectors. Before entering politics, he worked in the banking industry for over a decade. Shettima’s political journey began in 2007 when he was appointed as Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development in Borno State.
Shettima’s ascent to the position of Vice President of Nigeria came after serving two terms as the Governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019. His experience in managing one of Nigeria’s most challenging states, particularly during the Boko Haram insurgency, has been seen as a valuable asset to the current administration.
As Vice President, Shettima is tasked with supporting President Tinubu in implementing government policies and programs. He also serves as a key advisor on economic and security matters, leveraging his experience in both areas to contribute to Nigeria’s development and stability.
Biography of Kashim Shettima, Vice President of Nigeria
Kashim Shettima, the current Vice President of Nigeria, is a prominent political figure with a rich background in public service. As you delve into his biography, you’ll discover a man whose journey to the second-highest office in the land is marked by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to national development.
Born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, Borno State, Shettima’s formative years were shaped by his local environment. He pursued his education with vigor, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Maiduguri in 1989. His thirst for knowledge led him to obtain a Master’s degree in the same field from the University of Ibadan in 1991.
Shettima’s political career began in earnest when he was elected as the Governor of Borno State in 2011. His leadership during turbulent times, particularly in addressing security challenges, garnered him national attention. This experience undoubtedly prepared him for his current role as Vice President of Nigeria, a position he assumed in 2023 alongside President Bola Tinubu.
As you explore Shettima’s biography, you’ll find that his journey to becoming the Vice President of Nigeria is a testament to his political acumen and dedication to public service. His story offers insights into the complexities of Nigerian politics and the qualities that shape national leaders.
Early Life and Education of Kashim Shettima
Kashim Shettima was born in Maiduguri, Borno (then Northern Region) on September 2, 1966, to Shettima Mustafa Kuttayibe. Growing up in northeastern Nigeria, Shettima experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities of this diverse region. His early years were marked by a strong emphasis on education and public service, values that would shape his future career.
Shettima’s educational journey began in his hometown of Maiduguri, where he attended local primary and secondary schools. Shettima attended primary education at Lamisula Primary education in Maiduguri from 1972 to 1978, followed by secondary school at the Government high School, Biu in Borno State’s south from 1978 to 1980. Eventually, he transferred to Government Science Secondary School, Potiskum (in neighboring Yobe State), where he finished secondary school in 1983.
Demonstrating exceptional academic prowess, he gained admission to the prestigious University of Maiduguri. There, he pursued a degree in Agricultural Economics. In 1989, he graduated from the University of Maiduguri with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. From 1989 to 1990, he served his one-year compulsory National Youths Service Corps, or NYSC, in the defunct Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative Bank in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State in South-South Nigeria.
Not content with just one degree, Shettima’s thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics at the University of Ibadan. He completed this program in 1991, further honing his expertise in a field crucial to Nigeria’s economic development. This foundation in agriculture and economics would later prove invaluable in his political career. Shettima spent 1991-1993 as a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Maiduguri.
Following his academic achievements, Shettima embarked on a career in banking, gaining valuable experience in finance and management before entering politics.
Early Career
In 1993, he entered the banking industry, working as the head of the accounts unit at the now-defunct Commercial Bank of Africa Limited’s Ikeja office in Lagos State. Shettima worked there from 1993 to 1997. He joined African International Bank Limited in 1997 as a Deputy Manager and advanced to the position of Manager in 2001. In 2001, he became the head of Zenith Bank’s Maiduguri main branch. He rose through the ranks at Zenith Bank, becoming Senior Manager/Branch Head, Assistant General Manager (AGM)/Zonal Head (North-East), and Deputy General Manager/Zonal Head (North-East), before leaving as General Manager in 2007 to become Commissioner for Finance in Borno State.
Shettima worked as an Agricultural Economist for the Commercial Bank of Africa’s Ikeja Office in Lagos State from 1993 to 1997. He then became the deputy manager, and then as a manager, at African International Bank Limited’s Kaduna Branch (1997-2001), before being appointed Deputy Manager/Branch Head of Zenith Bank’s Maiduguri Office in 2001, and General Manager five years later.
Shettima was appointed the Commissioner of the Borno State Ministry of Finance and Economic Development in mid-2007. He eventually served as a Commissioner in the Ministries of Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Education, Agriculture, and Health, under his predecessor as Borno Governor Ali Modu Sheriff.
Political Career of Kashim Shettima
Kashim Shettima’s political journey has been marked by significant achievements and a steady rise through Nigeria’s political ranks. As the current Vice President of Nigeria, Shettima’s career trajectory offers insight into the nation’s evolving political landscape.
Shettima’s foray into politics began in the early 2000s when he joined the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). His dedication and political acumen quickly caught the attention of party leadership, setting the stage for his future ascent.
From 2007 until 2011, he worked as a state commissioner for five ministries. In the January 2011 ANPP primaries, Engineer Modu Fannami Gubio was chosen as the governor candidate. However, Gubio was later assassinated by assailants, and Shettima was chosen in a second primary in February 2011. Shettima won the elections on April 26, 2011, with 531,147 votes, while Muhammed Goni of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) received 450,140 votes.
In 2011, Shettima was elected as the Governor of Borno State, a position he held for two consecutive terms until 2019. His tenure was marked by efforts to address security challenges and promote economic development in the region. Following his governorship, Shettima transitioned to the national stage, winning a seat in the Nigerian Senate in 2019. In February 2019, he won the Borno Central Senatorial District election, succeeding Senator Babakaka Bashir.
Shettima’s selection as running mate to Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election marked a pivotal moment in his career. Their subsequent victory catapulted Shettima to the role of Vice President of Nigeria, solidifying his position as a key figure in national politics.
Throughout his political journey, Shettima has demonstrated a commitment to public service and an ability to navigate complex political landscapes. His ascent to the vice presidency reflects both his personal accomplishments and the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics.
Vice Presidency (2023–present)
Kashim Shettima assumed the role of Vice President of Nigeria on May 29, 2023, marking a significant milestone in his political career. As the second-highest-ranking official in the Nigerian government, Shettima’s responsibilities are both extensive and crucial to the nation’s governance.
The Vice President of Nigeria serves as the principal deputy to the President, ready to assume leadership if necessary. Shettima’s role includes:
- Presiding over the National Economic Council
- Assisting the President in policy formulation and implementation
- Representing Nigeria in international forums when delegated
Since taking office, Vice President Shettima has focused on several priority areas:
- Economic diversification
- National security enhancement
- Educational reform
His expertise in economics and finance has been particularly valuable in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. Shettima has been instrumental in developing strategies to reduce the country’s dependence on oil revenues and promote growth in other sectors.
As the Vice President of Nigeria, Shettima has garnered attention for his articulate speeches and diplomatic approach to governance. His background as a former governor and senator has provided him with a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s complex political landscape, which he leverages in his current role to bridge divides and foster cooperation across party lines.
Personal Life and Family of Kashim Shettima
Shettima is married to Nana Shettima, and together they have three children. Despite his demanding political career, he has always emphasized the importance of family. The Vice President of Nigeria maintains a low profile when it comes to his personal life, preferring to keep his family out of the public eye. This balance between public service and private life has been a hallmark of Shettima’s approach to leadership.
Outside of his political duties, Shettima is known for his love of reading and intellectual pursuits. He has a particular interest in history and economics, which often informs his approach to governance. Additionally, he enjoys engaging in community service activities, demonstrating his commitment to grassroots development and social welfare.
Policies and Achievements as Vice President
As the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima has been instrumental in shaping several key policies and achieving notable milestones since taking office. His role in the administration has been pivotal in addressing some of the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Economic Initiatives
Shettima has been a strong advocate for diversifying Nigeria’s economy. He has championed policies aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil exports and promoting growth in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. These efforts align with the administration’s goal of creating a more resilient and sustainable economic framework for the nation.
Security Measures
Given his background and experience in Borno State, the Vice President has played a crucial role in formulating strategies to combat insurgency and improve national security. His insights have been valuable in developing a more comprehensive approach to addressing the security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the northeastern region.
Education and Youth Empowerment
Shettima has been a vocal proponent of education reform and youth empowerment programs. He has supported initiatives to improve access to quality education, enhance vocational training, and create more opportunities for young Nigerians. These efforts are aimed at harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s large youth population and addressing unemployment challenges.
Diplomatic Relations
As Vice President of Nigeria, Shettima has been involved in strengthening the country’s international relations. He has participated in diplomatic missions and engaged with foreign leaders to promote Nigeria’s interests on the global stage, particularly in areas of trade, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.
Controversies Surrounding Kashim Shettima
As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, Kashim Shettima has not been immune to controversy. Some critics have questioned his past associations and political decisions. These allegations have sparked debates about his suitability for the role. However, Shettima has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintained his commitment to serving the Nigerian people.
Security Concerns
During his tenure as Governor of Borno State, Shettima faced significant challenges related to the Boko Haram insurgency. Some have criticized his handling of the security situation, particularly in the early years of the crisis. Despite these criticisms, Shettima has pointed to his efforts to improve security infrastructure and support for affected communities as evidence of his commitment to addressing the issue.
Economic Policies
As Vice President, Shettima’s economic policies have also come under scrutiny. While supporters praise his efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy and attract foreign investment, detractors argue that some of his initiatives have not yielded the promised results. These debates continue to shape public perception of Shettima’s role in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
Public Image
Despite these controversies, Shettima maintains a significant base of support, particularly in his home region. His supporters argue that his experience and dedication to public service make him well-suited to the role of Vice President. As Nigeria continues to face complex challenges, the debate over who is the Vice President of Nigeria and Shettima’s performance in this role is likely to remain a topic of national interest.
Conclusion
As you’ve learned, Kashim Shettima brings extensive experience and qualifications to his role as Vice President of Nigeria. His background in economics, banking, and state governance equips him to tackle Nigeria’s complex challenges alongside President Tinubu.
While his tenure is still new, Shettima’s actions and priorities in office will be closely watched. As Nigeria’s second-in-command, he has the potential to significantly impact the nation’s trajectory. By understanding Shettima’s background and position, you’re better informed about Nigeria’s current leadership. Stay engaged with news about the Vice President’s activities to follow how he shapes policy and addresses key issues facing Africa’s most populous country.