Vice President Kashim Shettima has reassured Nigerians that their sacrifices would not be in vain, reiterating that the promises made by the Tinubu administration would be upheld.
He conveyed this message on Thursday during a public lecture commemorating Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, as stated by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
In his address, Vice President Shettima underscored the administration’s dedication to building a nation where the economic independence of every citizen is guaranteed, thereby eliminating the need for unspecified handouts to make a living.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey, Shettima recognized the nation’s resilience over the past 63 years and the unity that has defied doomsayers.
He also stressed that the future promised to Nigerians is not merely an empty performance for electoral gains but a genuine commitment.
He emphasized that the future of a great nation is shaped by the intention, sincerity, and innovative ideas of its leaders, as well as their commitment to implementing these ideas.
To achieve progress, the Vice President highlighted the importance of delivering on promises, driving food security, eradicating poverty, fostering economic growth, nurturing job creation, facilitating access to capital, enhancing national security, and optimizing the business environment.
Vice President Shettima acknowledged the impact of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that the strength of the nation lies in its collective faith in its ideals and the moral character of its leaders.
He emphasized the role of leadership in shaping a nation’s destiny and recognized the sacrifices made by Nigerians, which have inspired the government to focus on diverse sectors for improvement.
Vice President Shettima expressed confidence that Nigeria would emerge stronger from its current challenges.
He described the sacrifices as investments in a brighter future that would secure the well-being of current and future generations.
He called on Nigerians to choose unity over chaos and democracy over anarchy, emphasizing that their collective resolve is their most potent weapon.
Additionally, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, urged the Federal Government to consider increasing workers’ salaries to mitigate the current economic situation.
He also called for improved synergy among government branches to deliver democracy dividends to Nigerians.
In a lecture on the Tinubu administration’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, guest speaker Dr. Goke Adegoroye commended President Tinubu’s efforts in repositioning governance and resetting the economy.
He encouraged the administration to prioritize key aspects of the agenda to ensure their impact reaches various sectors of the economy.
Distinguished guests at the event included Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume; Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folashade Esan; and several ministers and dignitaries from various ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as members of the diplomatic community.