Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called on the National Assembly to embrace its duty of leadership with a focus on national unity and development, setting aside political rivalries and partisan interests.
Speaking on Monday during an Iftar (breaking of Ramadan fast) gathering at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, hosted by President Bola Tinubu for members of the House of Representatives, Shettima urged lawmakers to approach governance with humility and a collective vision for progress.
“In the end, history will not judge us by the number of personal battles we waged against one another, but by the bridges we built together,” Shettima stated.
He emphasised that the lawmakers were not adversaries competing for power but partners engaged in the noble mission of nation-building. Reflecting on the significance of Ramadan, which coincides with the Christian Lenten season, he encouraged a period of deep reflection and reaffirmation of commitment to Nigeria’s unity.
“This sacred month of introspection reminds us to choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict, and dialogue over discord. What binds us as a nation far outweighs what divides us,” he remarked.
The Vice-President also praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a “visionary and inclusive leader.”
“In President Tinubu, you have not just a leader you can trust but one who trusts you. He views you as stewards of our democracy, as voices of the people, and as collaborators in our shared aspiration to build a better Nigeria,” he added.
Shettima highlighted that the government’s economic policies were beginning to yield positive results, indicating that Nigeria was on the path to sustained economic growth.
“We have turned the corner economically. With perseverance, we will build a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive,” he stated.
Additionally, he commended Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and the House leadership for fostering harmony within the legislature.
“There can be no development without peace, and there can be no peace without development. The unity within the House is a testament to our collective resolve to move Nigeria forward,” Shettima noted.
Urging leaders to govern with empathy, fairness, and justice, he reminded them that their positions were a sacred trust bestowed upon them by the Nigerian people.
“Leadership is not about personal gain; it is about service. It is a responsibility vested in us by God, tested by history, and measured by the impact we leave behind,” he declared.
In response, Speaker Abbas expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for hosting the gathering and for his continued respect and support for the House of Representatives.
“As we all know, Ramadan is a time for reflection—where we were, where we are, and where we want to be. Nigeria, now more than ever, requires such reflection,” he said.
Abbas encouraged both Muslims and Christians to use the fasting period to offer prayers for the nation.
“Nigerians are aware of what this administration has accomplished within just two years. This is a time for all of us to reflect and pray for our country,” he stated.
He urged prayers for the economy, improved security, and the well-being of both leaders and citizens.
Furthermore, he assured the President of the House’s full support, emphasising that government policies were designed for the benefit of the people and the nation.
On behalf of the House of Representatives, Abbas announced a donation of N705 million to the President.
He clarified that the sum represented a six-month, 50 per cent salary deduction from all House members, intended to support the President’s humanitarian efforts and assist vulnerable Nigerians.
