The Minority Leader of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, OON, has congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima on the occasion of his 60th birthday, describing him as an astute, intelligent and experienced leader whose contributions to the Nigerian project remain significant.
Elumelu, in a personally authored congratulatory statement on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, said the Vice President’s six decades of life offered Nigerians an opportunity to celebrate not only a distinguished statesman, but also a public servant whose career has been marked by competence, commitment and a deep sense of responsibility to the nation.
According to him, Shettima has, over the years, demonstrated an uncommon capacity for leadership, strategic thinking and nation-building, qualities which, he noted, have continued to distinguish him as a valuable asset to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Elumelu particularly commended the Vice President for his steadfast commitment and dedication to the success of the Tinubu administration, stressing that his loyalty, political maturity, experience and understanding of governance have contributed immensely to the translation of the Renewed Hope Agenda into tangible realities for Nigerians.
He said: “Vice President Kashim Shettima is an astute and intelligent leader who has contributed immensely to the Nigerian Project. At 60, we celebrate a man whose public life has been marked by courage, intellectual depth, patriotism and an enduring commitment to the service of our nation.
“His loyalty and dedication to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, coupled with his wealth of experience and political maturity, have in no small measure strengthened the administration and contributed to the translation of the Renewed Hope Agenda into reality.
“Beyond party lines and political considerations, his role in supporting the President and advancing the collective interests of Nigerians reflects a clear understanding of the enormous responsibilities that come with leadership at the highest level.”
The former Minority Leader also lauded Shettima’s sound knowledge of economic matters, noting that his leadership and coordination of the National Economic Council had provided an important platform for constructive engagement among the Federal Government and the various state governments.
Elumelu observed that the Vice President’s economic expertise and coordination of the Council had helped facilitate policies and initiatives aimed at stabilising, revitalising and repositioning the Nigerian economy, with positive outcomes continuing to emerge across different sectors.
He said the National Economic Council had remained a critical instrument for deepening economic cooperation between the Federal Government and the states, adding that Shettima’s ability to bring diverse perspectives together had strengthened the nation’s collective response to its economic challenges.
Elumelu also acknowledged the Vice President’s cordial relationship with the Governors of the states of the Federation, describing it as a demonstration of leadership, inclusiveness and respect for the constitutional roles of the various tiers of government.
He noted that such collaborative disposition had continued to foster greater understanding between the Federal Government and the states, thereby contributing to the peace, stability and unity which the present administration has continued to promote.
According to him, “The Vice President’s engagement with the Governors of the states of the Federation is another important dimension of his leadership. His ability to build bridges, listen to different perspectives and encourage cooperation demonstrates the inclusive leadership that our country needs at this time.
“This spirit of partnership is essential to national development because the challenges confronting Nigeria require all levels of government to work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect, understanding and shared responsibility.”
Elumelu expressed confidence that the Vice President would continue to deploy his experience, intellect and leadership capacity in the service of Nigeria, especially at a period when the country requires sustained unity, economic resilience and purposeful governance.
While celebrating Shettima’s 60th birthday, the former Minority Leader prayed that the birthday celebration would usher in greater accomplishments and fulfilment.
“On behalf of the entire Elumelu family, I warmly felicitate with His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, on the celebration of his 60th birthday anniversary.
“As you celebrate the goodness of the Lord God Almighty in your life, we thank God for His grace, preservation and the many years He has granted you in the service of our dear nation.
“I pray that Almighty God will continue to grant you sound health, renewed strength, many more joyous moments and fruitful years of purposeful leadership and accomplishments.
“May He continue to guide you with wisdom, protect you and your family, and strengthen you to render even greater service to humanity and to the glory of His holy name.
“Happy 60th Birthday, Your Excellency. May the years ahead be filled with greater grace, wisdom, fulfilment and enduring accomplishments in the service of God and humanity,” Elumelu said.
