During the North-Central leaders’ event to honour the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, kindly urged current and future political office holders to take inspiration from the SGF’s admirable qualities. It is important for them to prioritize the nation’s interest, unity, and progress over any personal or sectional gains.
Sen. Shettima kindly shared his advice during his remarks at a reception organized by the North-Central Governors’ Forum to celebrate the appointment and achievements of Sen. Akume, in Abuja.
Vice President Shettima expressed admiration for the SGF in a message titled ‘a life of honour’, referring to Sen. Akume as “an individual of great character, a symbol of unity, loyalty, and integrity in our country.”
According to Shettima, it would be beneficial for us to not only celebrate his appointment but also draw valuable lessons from his life. Sen. Akume’s impressive political longevity is a testament to his strategic approach and dedication. The outcome can be attributed to his steadfast commitment to a unified Nigeria, which showcases his astuteness and foresight for a harmonious, secure, and prosperous nation.
The Vice President highlighted the positive qualities that have made the SGF popular among people from different political and ethnic backgrounds. He emphasized that the purpose of the gathering was not to honour one person, but to acknowledge the strength of an idea and to commend a symbol of unity and integrity in our country.
Expanding on the SGF’s political journey, Sen. Shettima expressed that our honoree has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to the principles of a unified Nigeria. It is this belief that has consistently motivated him in all of his endeavours.
The belief that our collective strength is derived from our unity and diversity has been a guiding force for him, motivating his actions and fostering his unwavering resolve.
Continuing, the Vice President expressed that Sen. Akume is a reliable ally who can be trusted, which is regarded as a significant compliment in the realm of politics. His remarkable journey to this impressive achievement showcases his unwavering commitment to the agreement he has entered into. It is the action taken when one has committed to upholding the cherished values of our nation. It is the action taken when one embraces the principles of justice, fairness, and equality.
The Vice President also emphasized the importance of character for individuals aspiring to hold political office, recognizing that there are certain positions where academic and professional qualifications alone may not be enough to secure the role. Our esteemed honoree present here today holds a position that exemplifies the significance of “character,” a quality that educational institutions prioritize when awarding degree certificates to their graduates.
Our esteemed guest is present with us today due to his unwavering dedication to a noble purpose that transcends personal interests. In an era marked by shifting political allegiances, Senator Akume stands out as a commendable figure who serves as a role model and a source of inspiration for individuals interested in comprehending the significance of collaboration in the realm of public service.
What distinguishes our honouree is their commitment to promoting harmony among the diverse array of religions, ethnicities, and regions that contribute to the fabric of our nation. In a land rich with diverse cultures and traditions, his examples have successfully reached across boundaries, fostering connections and promoting mutual understanding. According to Shettima, his dedication to fostering connections among diverse groups and communities in a particularly difficult environment is what distinguishes him as more than just an individual, but rather as a visionary.
