Vice President Kashim Shettima has issued a robust appeal to political leaders and citizens across Nigeria, urging them to approach the upcoming 2027 electoral cycle with an exemplary degree of maturity, profound restraint, and an unwavering sense of national responsibility. Speaking on Wednesday after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Ramat Square Eid Ground in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Vice President delivered a stern warning against the use of inflammatory rhetoric, which he cautioned could significantly destabilise the country.

In a statement released by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration's steadfast commitment to diligently working towards alleviating the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians. He reassured the populace that both the federal and state governments are actively implementing ongoing reforms and targeted interventions specifically designed to cushion the impact of these challenges. “Governments at all levels are poised to ameliorate the sufferings of the Nigerian people,” Shettima stated, appealing to citizens to demonstrate patience and continuous support for these governmental efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and enhancing living conditions.

Emphasising the critical need for political decorum, Vice President Shettima articulated, “As we enter the political phase, there is a need for maturity, forbearance and generosity of spirit in our political interactions. We must avoid inflammatory statements and actions capable of overheating the polity because what binds us together as Nigerians supersedes whatever divides us.” He underscored that unity is an indispensable prerequisite for national progress and called for fervent prayers for enduring peace and stability throughout the entire country. “Let there be peace in the land. Let us continue to pray for peace not only in Borno State but in every nook and cranny of Nigeria,” he added.

Drawing parallels with global dynamics, Shettima referenced existing tensions, particularly citing unrest in the Middle East, as a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of national cohesion and vigilant collective action. His presence at the Eid prayers was graced by several prominent figures, including the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; members of the National Assembly; and other distinguished senior government officials.

Following the communal prayers, Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur paid a traditional Sallah homage to the Vice President at his Maiduguri residence. During this visit, Kadafur lauded the Vice President's unwavering support for both the state and federal government initiatives. He extended felicitations for the “2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration,” and offered prayers to Almighty Allah, seeking to grant Vice President Shettima good health, profound wisdom, and the requisite strength to continue his crucial role in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration in its mission to propel Nigeria to greater heights. Kadafur concluded by also urging continuous prayers for pervasive peace, unity, and prosperity across the entire nation.