Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday began a two-week leave after receiving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval, with the Presidency saying the break is intended for study, reflection and intellectual renewal.
The leave, which commenced on Thursday, August 6, marks Senator Shettima’s first official break since he was sworn into office alongside President Tinubu on May 29, 2023.
Announcing the development in a statement issued on Thursday, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, said the Vice President would use the period to strengthen his capacity for continued service to the nation.
According to Nkwocha, “During the period, the Vice President will devote time to study, reflection and intellectual renewal as part of efforts to strengthen his capacity for continued service to the nation.”
He explained that the leave would also provide Shettima with an opportunity to review the administration’s ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Federal Government intensifies the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The leave offers Senator Shettima an opportunity to review the administration’s ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Federal Government intensifies the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Nkwocha stated.
The presidential aide noted that since assuming office, the Vice President has remained actively engaged in coordinating and supervising several strategic government initiatives, particularly in the areas of economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation.
Nkwocha further highlighted Shettima’s role as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), where he leads deliberations involving the governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other key public officials on policies affecting the nation’s economy and the welfare of citizens.
He also recalled that the Vice President has represented President Tinubu at several major international and regional engagements, promoting Nigeria’s interests on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development.
Reaffirming the Vice President’s commitment to the administration, Nkwocha said, “Senator Shettima remains deeply committed to the ideals of loyalty, duty and service that have defined his role in the administration, as well as to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.”
He added that the Vice President would return to office at the expiration of the two-week leave and resume his official responsibilities “with renewed energy and dedication to the service of the nation.”
