Kaduna senator praises Tinubu for keeping Shettima as running mate

The Senator for Kaduna South, Sunday Katung, has welcomed the decision to keep Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election. He called this choice a reward for loyalty, skill, and hard work.

Katung stated that Tinubu’s move to retain Shettima shows his trust in the VP’s leadership skills and his role in carrying out the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The senator shared his thoughts in a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Midat Joseph.

He noted that Shettima has been a reliable partner for the President, offering "steady support and valuable counsel" during the past three years of the administration.

Katung said, "The re-nomination is a clear testament to Vice President Shettima’s loyalty, competence and unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

"Over the last three years, the Vice President has provided steady support and valuable counsel in piloting the affairs of the nation."

He also praised Tinubu for having faith in his deputy. He said this choice shows that the President values Shettima’s experience, insights, and contributions to governance.

Katung added that the renewed partnership between Tinubu and Shettima would give Nigerians confidence in continuity and stability as the administration works on economic reforms and tackles security issues.

"The decision reflects Mr President’s recognition of the Vice President’s experience, strategic insight and invaluable contributions to governance, national unity and the overall progress of the country," Katung said.

He is hopeful that if they are re-elected, the administration will achieve more in infrastructure, human capital development, and inclusive economic growth.

Katung also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection for both the President and the Vice President as they continue to lead the nation.

Reaffirming his support for the All Progressives Congress presidential ticket, the senator urged Nigerians to rally behind the administration in its aim to build a stronger and more prosperous country.

"The renewed partnership between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima gives Nigerians renewed assurance of continuity, stability and purposeful leadership. Their combined experience remains critical at this time when the administration is consolidating key economic reforms and security gains," he added.

The APC recently named Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election, while Shettima will continue as his running mate.

Shettima, who was the governor of Borno State and a former senator, first became Tinubu’s running mate before the 2023 election. Both leaders took office on May 29, 2023, and have since been driving the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic reforms, infrastructure growth, social investment, and security.

Katung, who chairs the Senate Committee on the North West Development Commission, has been a steady supporter of the Tinubu administration’s policies. He has often urged Nigerians to back the ongoing reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and improving national security.