Vice President Kashim Shettima has commenced a two-week leave following approval by President Bola Tinubu.
Gatekeepers News reports that the leave, which began on Thursday, is the Vice President’s first since he assumed office on May 29, 2023.
Announcing the development in a statement, Shettima’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, said the period would be devoted to study, reflection and intellectual renewal aimed at enhancing the Vice President’s capacity for public service.
“During the period, the Vice President will devote time to study, reflection and intellectual renewal as part of efforts to strengthen his capacity for continued service to the nation,” the statement said.
According to Nkwocha, the leave will also allow Shettima to assess the administration’s ongoing programmes, broaden his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the next phase of implementing the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The leave offers Senator Shettima an opportunity to review the administration’s ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Federal Government intensifies the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement added.
Nkwocha noted that since taking office, Shettima has played a key role in coordinating and supervising strategic government initiatives spanning economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation.
He also highlighted the Vice President’s leadership of the National Economic Council, which comprises the 36 state governors, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other senior government officials responsible for deliberating on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.
The statement further said Shettima has represented President Tinubu at major regional and international engagements, promoting Nigeria’s interests in economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development.
“Senator Shettima remains deeply committed to the ideals of loyalty, duty and service that have defined his role in the administration, as well as to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria,” the statement said.
Nkwocha added that the Vice President is expected to resume his official duties at the end of the two-week leave.
