Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged political leaders and citizens to approach the 2027 electoral cycle with maturity, restraint and a strong sense of national responsibility, warning against inflammatory rhetoric capable of destabilising the country.
He also assured Nigerians that both the federal government and state governments are working to cushion the impact of current economic challenges through ongoing reforms and targeted interventions.
Shettima spoke on Wednesday after observing Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Ramat Square Eid Ground in Maiduguri, Borno State.
According to a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to reducing economic hardship while strengthening security and expanding opportunities for citizens.
“Governments at all levels are poised to ameliorate the sufferings of the Nigerian people,” Shettima said.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of government efforts to stabilise the economy and improve living conditions.
“As we enter the political phase, there is a need for maturity, forbearance and generosity of spirit in our political interactions. We must avoid inflammatory statements and actions capable of overheating the polity because what binds us together as Nigerians supersedes whatever divides us,” he said.
The Vice President also called for prayers for peace and stability across the country, noting that unity was essential for national progress.
“Let there be peace in the land. Let us continue to pray for peace not only in Borno State but in every nook and cranny of Nigeria,” he added.
Shettima referenced global tensions, including unrest in the Middle East, as a reminder of the importance of national cohesion and vigilance.
He was joined at the Eid prayers by the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari; members of the National Assembly; and other senior government officials.
After the prayers, the deputy governor paid a Sallah homage to the Vice President at his Maiduguri residence, praising his support for the state and federal government efforts.
“We are here to felicitate with Your Excellency on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration,” Kadafur said.
“We pray Almighty Allah to grant you good health, wisdom and the strength to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in moving Nigeria to greater heights,” he added, while also urging prayers for peace, unity and prosperity across the country.
