The Presidency has announced that Vice President Kashim Shettima has commenced his first official leave since assuming office on May 29, 2023.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, President Bola Tinubu approved the Vice President’s two-week leave to allow him time to rest after more than three years of uninterrupted official engagements.
The Presidency stressed that Shettima’s leave should not be misconstrued, maintaining that he has remained fully engaged in the administration’s activities since taking office.
“Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the Vice President has remained actively engaged in the coordination and supervision of several strategic government initiatives, particularly in economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation,” Nkwocha said.
The statement highlighted Shettima’s role as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), where he leads deliberations on economic policies alongside the governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other senior government officials.
“He has also chaired the National Economic Council, which brings together the governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other relevant public officials to deliberate on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians,” the statement added.
Beyond his domestic responsibilities, the Presidency noted that the Vice President has represented President Tinubu at numerous regional and international engagements, promoting Nigeria’s interests in economic integration, investment, peace and security, climate action and sustainable development.
“Beyond his responsibilities within the country, Vice President Shettima has represented President Tinubu at major international and regional engagements, advancing Nigeria’s position on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development,” Nkwocha stated.
Reaffirming the Vice President’s commitment to the administration, the presidential aide said Shettima remains focused on supporting President Tinubu’s agenda.
“Senator Shettima remains deeply committed to the ideals of loyalty, duty and service that have defined his role in the administration, as well as to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
The Presidency added that Shettima will return to work after the expiration of the approved leave.
“The Vice President will return to office at the end of the two-week leave period and resume his official responsibilities with renewed energy and dedication to the service of the nation,” Nkwocha added.
