During a book launch in Abuja on Thursday, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered an impassioned speech in support of President Bola Tinubu, offering rare personal insights into the character of Nigeria’s leader.
The event marked the release of “Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria,” authored by Prof. Modupe Adelabu, a retired professor of Educational Administration from Obafemi Awolowo University.
In his address, Shettima painted a picture of Tinubu as a misunderstood figure, stating, “He is the most demonised politician in Nigeria.” The Vice President shared his personal experience of visiting Tinubu’s residence in Bourdillon, Lagos, describing it as a “derelict colonial structure” that fell short of the grand expectations many might have of a powerful politician’s home.
“The first time I went to his house at Bourdillon, I was looking forward to seeing a mansion comparable to Buckingham palace, with gardens, with swimming pools, and it was an anti-climax. When I went to the house at Bourdillon, I saw a derelict colonial structure, struggling to wear the looks of modernity. There is nothing special about that house. My house in Maiduguri is better than the house at Bourdillon,” Shettima remarked, using this depiction to counter perceptions of Tinubu as a figure of extravagance or self-enrichment.
Shettima emphasised Tinubu’s commitment to national progress, stating, “He is not in power to engage in primitive capital accumulation. He is in power to make landmarks in the sands of time.” The Vice President expressed confidence in Tinubu’s intentions, asserting, “I have seen the soul of Bola Tinubu and he has a good soul. He means well for the nation.”
While addressing the current challenges facing Nigeria, Shettima acknowledged the difficulties but praised Tinubu’s resolve. “The president had the courage, the political courage and the willpower to take far-reaching decisions,” he said, likening the nation’s current struggles to the pains of childbirth that precede a joyous outcome.
“It is not about apportioning blame, but it’s about finding solutions to our nation’s needs. We knew there are challenges. When a woman is about to give birth, it’s a very painful process, but after the child has come forth, it calls for celebration.”
The Vice President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic trajectory, declaring, “We have crossed the river. The economy is now on a path to sustained growth.” He predicted that history would judge Tinubu favourably, stating, “I believe that posterity will be very kind to this poor man.”
Comments