President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly referred to Vice President Kashim Shettima as "a very good partner on the journey for progress," a statement that has garnered significant attention amid ongoing speculation about political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections. The remark was made during the opening of the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on Monday, February 9.
Addressing Rumors of a 2027 Plot
The President's comments come at a time when rumors have been circulating that Tinubu might consider dropping Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential race. These speculations suggest that some northern stakeholders have urged the President, who is Muslim, to select a Christian running mate from the northern states to potentially secure a landslide victory for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, the APC has denied such attempts, labeling the rumors as baseless and politically motivated.
While acknowledging dignitaries at the event, Tinubu introduced Shettima as "Distinguished Vice President and Chairman of the National Economic Council, Kashim Shettima, a very good partner on the journey for progress." This introduction prompted applause from governors, ministers, senior government officials, and private sector leaders in attendance, highlighting the Vice President's role in the administration.
Tinubu's Focus on Security and Economic Reforms
In his address, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration's determination to tackle terrorism and banditry, describing insecurity as unacceptable and contrary to Nigeria's values and way of life. He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to strengthen security agencies and restore peace in communities affected by violent crimes. Tinubu emphasized that insecurity is a major drag on economic growth and called for collective responsibility in addressing this challenge.
Agricultural Mechanization Zones Announced
As part of efforts to boost productivity and support food security, Tinubu announced plans to establish seven agricultural mechanization zones. He stated that agriculture remains central to economic recovery, job creation, and sustainable development, particularly at the sub-national level. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural output and contribute to the nation's food security goals.
Prioritizing Infrastructure and Economic Stability
Welcoming participants to the two-day NEC conference, the President highlighted that the gathering underscores a shared commitment by federal and state governments to national development. He noted that ongoing economic reforms have contributed to stabilizing the economy and restoring confidence among global investors. Tinubu added that his administration continues to prioritize infrastructure development in key sectors, including transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation.
Shettima's Call for Intergovernmental Cooperation
Speaking at the conference, Vice President Shettima urged closer collaboration among the federal, state, and local governments, describing the NEC as a critical platform for shaping Nigeria's economic direction through dialogue and consensus. He called on council members to focus on poverty reduction, job creation, and fiscal sustainability, stressing that coordinated action across all levels of government is essential for meaningful progress.
Shettima's emphasis on stronger intergovernmental cooperation aligns with the administration's broader goals of addressing economic challenges and fostering development. His role as Chairman of the National Economic Council positions him as a key figure in these efforts, further reinforcing the partnership highlighted by President Tinubu.
The event in Abuja has thus served as a platform for both reaffirming political alliances and outlining strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing Nigeria's security, agricultural productivity, and economic stability as the nation looks toward future elections and development milestones.
