Vice President Kashim Shettima has opted for a low-key observance of his 60th birthday, appealing to friends, associates and well-wishers to refrain from placing congratulatory advertisements in newspapers or airing celebratory messages across radio, television and digital platforms.
Shettima, who turns 60 on September 2, 2026, said the decision reflects his belief that public attention should remain focused on the task of national development rather than personal celebrations.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President urged supporters to avoid organising public birthday events, congratulatory gatherings or goodwill advertorials in his honour.
“To ensure absolute propriety, I respectfully appeal that there should be no public birthday celebrations, congratulatory gatherings or goodwill advertorials across print, broadcast and digital media platforms”, Shettima said.
Instead of elaborate celebrations or paid media campaigns, the Vice President called on well-wishers to channel their goodwill into prayers for Nigeria and the success of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He specifically requested prayers for the success of the government’s ongoing economic reforms, the resolution of the nation’s security challenges, greater national cohesion, and the peace and prosperity of Nigerians.
According to him, the milestone should be viewed not as an occasion for personal glorification but as a moment for reflection, gratitude and renewed dedication to public service.
The Vice President noted that the country remains at a critical stage in its development journey and requires the collective support, prayers and commitment of citizens to overcome prevailing challenges and achieve sustainable progress.
Shettima has served as Vice President since May 29, 2023, working alongside President Tinubu in the implementation of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The statement said his preference for a modest observance of the occasion underscores his conviction that service to the nation should take precedence over personal milestones and celebrations.
