Shettima at 60: Mahmoud Alfa Hails VP’s Life of Service »

The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, has been described as a leader whose years of public service have been marked by commitment, sacrifice and a strong sense of responsibility to the people.

A Kogi East senatorial aspirant and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Vibranium Group, Dr. Mahmoud Bala Alfa, gave the commendation in a message to mark Shettima’s 60th birthday.

Alfa described the Vice President as a remarkable Nigerian, respected leader, mentor and friend, saying his journey from the banking sector to the governorship of Borno State and later the Vice Presidency had given a special meaning to leadership.

He said Shettima’s approach to leadership had always been centred on accepting responsibility, making difficult decisions, making sacrifices and remaining committed to the people.

According to Alfa, the demands of the Vice President’s office are enormous, while the expectations placed on anyone occupying the position are equally high.

“Yet, you continue to show up, listen, work and give your best. Sometimes, I genuinely wonder how you manage to do all that you do,” he said.

Alfa said what stood out to him most about Shettima was not only his position but the personal example he had continued to set through his commitment to public service.

He said his close relationship with the Vice President had also shaped his own understanding of service and influenced his decision to seek elective public office.

Alfa, who said he had always loved the business world despite coming from a political family, noted that he had not initially been in a hurry to enter elective politics.

“But you gave me every reason to take that step,” he said.

He explained that spending time with Shettima made it easier to understand why public service matters and why people in positions of responsibility must be willing to make sacrifices for society.

“No one can spend time around you and not begin to understand why public service matters,” Alfa said.

The Kogi East aspirant also praised Shettima for his personal qualities, including his kindness, willingness to listen and readiness to offer counsel.

He said the Vice President’s advice and encouragement had been valuable to him and expressed gratitude for the confidence and support he had received from him.

Alfa said Nigeria was passing through an important period in its history and that the experience of leaders who understood the weight of public responsibility remained important to the country’s progress.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to give Shettima wisdom, strength and good health to serve Nigeria.

He also wished the Vice President many more years of service and greater opportunities to make a difference in the lives of Nigerians.

“Thank you for your friendship, your counsel, your encouragement and, most importantly, the example you continue to set,” Alfa said.

As Shettima marks his 60th birthday, Alfa joined Nigerians in celebrating his years of service and wished him continued success in his service to the country.