Deborah Akinyosoye
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the government is open to making adjustments where necessary, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing citizens’ concerns and building a prosperous future.
Speaking at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Abuja, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, Shettima, represented by his special adviser on political matters, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, acknowledged the challenges posed by recent government policies.
“We are acutely aware of many concerns over our direction and goals, particularly given the difficulties which some of our policies inevitably generate,” Shettima said.
“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account for our stewardship in all manners our challenging democratic systems demand.”
The vice president described the administration’s efforts as part of a necessary transition from a “broken past” to a promising future. He called on Nigerians to remain patient, assuring them that the difficulties faced today would yield long-term benefits.
“I am convinced that we will reap the benefits of our current, unavoidable difficulties. I am convinced that Nigeria shall rise again, answer to its full potential, and lead the way to a future that will have learnt lessons from a difficult past,” he added.
Shettima reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing key challenges, including economic reforms, national security, and anti-corruption efforts, while strengthening democratic institutions such as the judiciary.
“It has been said many times that democracy is an imperfect system, yet superior to all others,” he noted.
“We will continue to seek to provide evidence of the values of the democratic system by fixing major weaknesses in our economy, securing our communities, and improving national cohesion.”
Calling on Nigerians to support the administration, Shettima said democracy should extend beyond periodic elections to include transparent, accountable governance that prioritizes citizens’ welfare.
“Nigerian democracy must mean a lot more than asking Nigerians to line up every four years to elect leaders,” he said.
“Leaders must commit to the demands of elected leadership in very transparent manners and remain servants to the interests of the people.”
The vice-president reaffirmed his belief in Nigeria’s potential, urging citizens to join hands with the government in what he described as a “challenging but ultimately rewarding journey.”