In the heart of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, the air of festivity during the annual Ramadan festival was matched only by the resounding message of hope, unity, and purpose delivered by Hajiya Nana Shettima, the wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, Shettima.
Speaking before a vibrant audience of women groups, students, and political figures, Hajiya Shettima offered more than celebration. She delivered a call to action, a defense of policy, and a vision of a Nigeria steadily rising on the foundation being laid by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Addressing the gathering, Hajiya Shettima praised President Tinubu’s governance style, characterizing his administration as a transformative force, driven by impactful economic policies and strategic investments in key sectors.
“President Bola Tinubu is baking a new cake for us that are alive today, and for the Nigerian children and grandchildren that are coming behind us,” she said, painting a vivid metaphor for the long-term planning and future-mindedness she believes defines the current leadership.
Her message was clear; the work of governance is a shared responsibility — and Nigerians have a role to play, not only in supporting policy but in constructively critiquing it. “We must be constructive in our criticism,” she advised, urging citizens to offer advice and encouragement rather than attack government initiatives for political reasons,” she said.
With visible passion, Hajiya Shettima extended her praise to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her tireless efforts in championing social causes, particularly through the Renewed Hope Initiative, a pet project which she said ,has reached thousands especially women, children, and people with disabilities.
Her tribute echoed the sentiments of many in the audience who have seen firsthand the impact of the initiative on their communities.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Asabe Bashir, Director General of the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, brought a spiritual dimension to the discussion.
She called on the people of Borno State to carry forward the values of Ramadan, through reflection, prayer, and unity and to channel them into ongoing support for the Tinubu-led administration. “If the administration succeeds, we succeed,” she remarked, encapsulating the collective stake Nigerians have in national development.
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A similar note was struck by Tijjani Abubakar, Speaker of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria, who commended the government’s support for youth empowerment. His words resonated with the young people in attendance, many of whom have benefitted from skills training and employment programs initiated under the current administration.
Dr. Martins Ekunke, representing the South-South, Yoruba, and Igbo communities in Borno State, also lent his voice to the chorus of praise. He applauded the First Lady’s outreach to vulnerable populations, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS, describing her efforts as “galvanizing support where it’s most needed.”
The event drew a diverse crowd, a reflection of the multi-cultural tapestry of Borno State. Among those present were the wives of top state lawmakers, female commissioners, and leaders of ethnic communities, along with members of the Borno State chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Their presence underscored the unifying power of events such as this bringing together people across social and political lines in a shared vision of progress.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex challenges, Hajiya Nana Shettima’s words offer both a reminder and a rallying cry. Leadership is only as strong as the people behind it. And with continued collaboration, constructive dialogue, and a commitment to national unity, a better Nigeria is not just possible, it is already taking shape, she stated.
