Shettima Begins First Official Leave Since Becoming Vice President

(Vice President Kashim Shettima. Photo by Premuim Times Nigeria)

Vice President Kashim Shettima has begun a two-week leave allowed by President Bola Tinubu, his first formal leave since taking office on May 29, 2023.

Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, revealed the development in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday.

Nkwocha stated that the absence will allow the Vice President to spend time to study and contemplation as part of efforts to develop his capabilities.

He explained that the period would allow Shettima to review the administration's current programs and assess key policy priorities.

According to him, the leave would also help the vice president better understand emerging national and global policy issues.

He said that the exercise would better equip Shettima for future duties as the Federal Government ramped up implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

"Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the Vice President has remained actively engaged in the coordination and supervision of several strategic government initiatives," Nkwocha stated.

He mentioned that Shettima had made substantial contributions to economic development, food security, humanitarian concerns, digital transformation, job creation, and regional cooperation.

Nkwocha stated that the Vice President has also presided over meetings of the National Economic Council, a vital intergovernmental policy-making platform.

He said that the council is made up of the governors of 36 states, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and other prominent public figures.

"As well as other relevant public officials to deliberate on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians," he said.

Nkwocha also acknowledged Shettima's efforts to Nigeria's involvement with the international community on vital development issues.

"Beyond his responsibilities within the country, Vice President Shettima has represented President Tinubu at major international and regional engagements," he stated.

He noted that the Vice President had persistently advocated for Nigeria's position on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment, and sustainable development.

Nkwocha stated that Shettima remained devoted to the ideals of loyalty, duty, and service that defined his role in the administration.

He stated that the Vice President has continued to support President Tinubu's efforts to create a more secure, productive, and prosperous Nigeria.

"As well as supporting President Tinubu's efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria," Nkwocha stated.

He said that Shettima would return to work at the end of her two-week break.