Vice President Kashim Shettima has strongly refuted claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has neglected the Northern region, stating that the region has no reason to suffer from poverty due to its abundant blessings.
In an interview with Radio France RFI Hausa Service, Shettima addressed recent protests and criticisms. “In my understanding, we are in a democracy and democracy has given a citizen the right to voice his grievances but in a peaceful manner. What we are running away from is politicians with bad intentions and hoodlums causing a commotion that could lead to anarchy. Unfortunately, this happened,” he said.
He emphasised that President Tinubu is a “complete politician” who respects citizens’ rights and described recent events as “unfortunate and disturbing” for both society and the government.
Addressing concerns about the government’s commitment to the North, Shettima stated, “Really, the Government has good intentions to help our people in the North.” He highlighted several initiatives, including a foundation with a ₦100 billion budget to support 500 million farmers, a new Ministry of Livestock to benefit Northern herders, and the distribution of 42,000 tons of food from government reserves to combat high food prices.
Shettima also noted the increase in the minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 and affirmed that the President’s intentions are positive. “In shaa Allah (by the will of Allah), whatever steps should be taken to help our people will be taken. We understand they are in hardship, and we sympathise with them,” he said.
On the impact of the removal of the oil subsidy, he remarked, “These people are our friends, our neighbors. They are our politicians.” He assured that the government acknowledges the challenges and is working to address them, despite having only been in office for a year.
Shettima countered allegations that the Tinubu administration favors the South over the North, stating, “Out of 46 Ministers, 24 are from the North. Since independence, there has never been a government where so many key positions and parastatals are led by Northerners.” He cited examples such as Minister of Defense Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar from Jigawa, Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari from Borno, and Minister of Education Tahir Mamman from Adamawa.
He also pointed out that the President established the Ministry of Livestock and the North West Development Commission to support regional development. “The President loves the North and is grateful for the 63% of votes we provided. He is being kind to us,” Shettima said.
Looking ahead, Shettima announced plans to convene a meeting with Northern governors, wealthy Northerners, and other stakeholders to address the region’s economic and security issues. “We have no business with poverty in the North. Allah has blessed us with everything. We will engage with wealthy Northerners and political leaders to ensure genuine commitment and progress for the North,” he concluded.
