VP Shettima asks supporters to give to charity, not birthday gifts
Vice President Kashim Shettima has asked his friends, supporters, associates and well-wishers to shun gifts and lavish celebrations as he marks his 60th birthday, urging them instead to channel any resources they would have spent on him to charity and other worthy causes. He made the appeal in a Facebook post on Tuesday night, ahead of his birthday on Wednesday.
Shettima said he has consistently discouraged material tributes on his birthdays, describing the milestone as a moment for reflection, gratitude and greater commitment to giving. He urged Nigerians to pray for him and the country, and to pray for peace in their communities, prosperity for the people, wisdom for leaders and the fulfilment of Nigeria’s potential.
The Vice President highlighted Nigeria’s strengths, including its industrious population, entrepreneurial spirit, youthful population, cultural diversity and capacity to foster fellowship across differences. He thanked those who have shown him affection, loyalty and prayers over the years, and wished Nigerians long life, good health and fulfilment, encouraging them to embrace the 'quiet joy of being useful to someone who may never be able to repay you.'
Shettima, who served as governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019, was sworn in as Vice President alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 29 May 2023.