By Stanley Nkwocha
Beyond his administrative prowess and impressive work ethic, which are immediately apparent even to first-time visitors, working closely with Vice President Kashim Shettima teaches one the essence of compelling humility. I can confidently say that humility is deeply embedded in his character and radiates from him naturally.
Having travelled with him on most of his trips, every day serves as a lesson on how not to let power go to one’s head. What is even more remarkable is how he maintains his composure and humility despite having served as governor for eight years.
Having known him for more than two decades, I am continually amazed and humbled by how he blends respect and dignity for human life, treating both the humble and the mighty with equal regard. I say this with all respect and a sense of responsibility.
Just last Saturday, as we made our way to his relatively modest house in Maiduguri—where he had come to spend Eid Mubarak and attend to some official duties—a crowd had gathered to welcome him and seek entry into his residence.
As is typical with VIP protection, the security personnel attached to him would not allow this for obvious security reasons. When it comes to protecting VIPs, their professionalism never wavers. They protect vigilantly and never compromise. Unfortunately for them, this VP always prefers simplicity and maintaining a down-to-earth approach.
Upon noticing the crowd being kept away from his residence, a visibly upset VP stepped out of his vehicle and ordered in Hausa: “Open the gates for them. Let everyone in. We’ll all go in together.” I watched as his main sitting room filled to capacity within seconds. Minutes later, everyone joined him for prayers and subsequently shared a meal with him.
As I observed people dining with the Vice President, several recent incidents came to mind. One occurred during an international trip to Switzerland, another at the office, and most recently at the Presidential wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport last Friday. The latter involved former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
At the recent World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, VP Shettima had just concluded a session and returned to his accommodation to prepare for the next one when he noticed some aides who had come to welcome him back. The elevator had opened for him when he suddenly turned back and looked at the aides, asking, “Have you all eaten?” Noticing their hesitation to respond, especially in a foreign land where most would crave Nigerian food but it might not be readily available, the VP responded immediately without waiting for their answer: “Let’s all go upstairs and have a meal together.” It’s difficult to describe how everyone felt at home with the VP as they took advantage of his warm invitation, including myself.
Another humbling experience occurred during the last Christmas holiday when a trip was scheduled for him. The Christians on his main team—about four of us out of eight—had naturally reported for duty. When he arrived and we were about to head to the airport with our luggage, he sharply asked, “Where are you guys going?” Before we could answer, he said firmly, “Go home and spend the holiday with your loved ones. Come back after the holidays. If there’s anything urgent, I’ll call.” We stood speechless as we watched the convoy speed away.
While such sensitivity was certainly noteworthy, perhaps the humility he displayed recently when he encountered former President Olusegun Obasanjo at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was most remarkable.
Having just landed in Abuja from Mokwa in Niger State, where he had gone to inspect flood devastation in the area, the VP’s motorcade was positioned to escort him from the airport according to protocol. As he approached the motorcade, he was informed that elder statesman and former President Olusegun Obasanjo would arrive within minutes, scheduled to fly out of Abuja from the same terminal. Immediately, VP Shettima ordered his motorcade to move aside to make way for the former President’s arrival and decided to wait respectfully to honour the elder statesman.
As soon as the former President’s motorcade stopped and his car door opened, the VP approached him and shook his hand, extending warm pleasantries. While they exchanged friendly conversation, it was easy to see the mutual respect and esteem both men held for each other. It was only after OBJ departed that the VP’s motorcade proceeded to escort him away.
These moments, seemingly small yet profoundly telling, capture the essence of a leader who has never forgotten where he came from or the people who serve alongside him. In a world where power often breeds arrogance and distance, VP Shettima stands as a rare example of how authority can coexist with authentic humility.
Humility, loyalty, and unwavering respect might be mere words to some; however, they continue to define this VP’s character. Indeed, I dare say these qualities, along with his astute competence, must have endeared him to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and continue to do so. For those who hope for discord between the two leaders, they will be disappointed. The commitment, loyalty, humility, and total dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda that the Vice President demonstrates with graceful humility are noticed by many, except perhaps by a few who covet the VP’s position.
As the Vice President often says, “Gentlemen, let’s keep our eyes on the ball. Let no one distract us. This President must succeed. Everyone should focus their energy on supporting his administration’s efforts. Don’t mind those sponsored troublemakers writing lies always.”
As we continue to work toward the historic success of President Tinubu’s administration and his enduring legacy, the manner in which the VP gracefully discharges his duties with such loyalty and humility remains exemplary to me.
Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President).
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