Paragraph 1: A Call for Unity and Collaborative Nation-Building
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu at an Iftar dinner hosted for the House of Representatives, emphasized the paramount importance of unity and national development over political divisions. He urged the lawmakers to prioritize collaboration over conflict, recognizing that their shared responsibility was to build a better Nigeria. Shettima stressed that history would judge them not by individual battles fought, but by the bridges they collectively constructed. He framed the gathering not as a contest for power but as a partnership in nation-building, underscoring the shared goal of progress and development.
Paragraph 2: Ramadan’s Significance and the Pursuit of National Harmony
Highlighting the convergence of Ramadan and the Lenten season, Shettima invoked the spirit of reflection and renewal to advocate for stability, collaboration, and dialogue. He emphasized that the common bonds uniting Nigerians far outweigh any divisive factors. This period of introspection, he argued, should serve as a reminder of the importance of choosing unity over strife and working together towards a common purpose. The Vice-President’s message resonated with the themes of both religious observances – a time for spiritual growth and recommitment to shared values.
Paragraph 3: Tinubu’s Leadership and Vision for Nigeria
Shettima commended President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a visionary and inclusive leader who placed trust in the lawmakers. He portrayed Tinubu not merely as a leader to be trusted, but one who trusts in the representatives’ capacity as stewards of democracy, voices of the people, and partners in achieving a better Nigeria. This characterization aimed to foster a sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect between the executive and legislative branches of government.
Paragraph 4: Economic Progress and Positive Outlook
The Vice-President expressed optimism about the government’s economic policies, asserting that they were yielding positive results and setting Nigeria on a path of sustained economic growth. He projected confidence in the future, envisioning a Nigeria where every citizen could thrive. This optimistic outlook, while not delving into specific policy details, sought to assure the lawmakers and the public of the government’s commitment to improving the economic well-being of the nation.
Paragraph 5: House Leadership and the Importance of Harmony
Shettima praised Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and the House leadership for fostering harmony within the legislature. He highlighted the interconnectedness of peace and development, arguing that the unity exhibited by the House was a testament to their collective determination to move Nigeria forward. This commendation reinforced the importance of internal cohesion within the legislative body to effectively address the nation’s challenges. Furthermore, he underscored the principle of leadership as service, emphasizing that their positions were a sacred trust bestowed upon them by the Nigerian people.
Paragraph 6: Speaker Abbas’s Pledge of Support and Donation
Speaker Abbas expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the invitation and acknowledged the significance of Ramadan as a time for reflection. He echoed the Vice-President’s call for prayer and reflection, emphasizing the need for divine intervention in addressing the nation’s challenges, including the economy and security. Abbas pledged the House’s unwavering support for President Tinubu’s policies, which he believed were designed to benefit the people and the nation as a whole. He underscored this commitment with a significant donation of N705 million from the House members’ salaries, intended to support the President’s humanitarian efforts and assist vulnerable populations. This gesture served as a tangible demonstration of the House’s support for the President’s agenda and their commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian people.
