Vice President Kashim Shettima has started a two-week leave approved by President Bola Tinubu, marking his first official leave since assuming office on May 29, 2023.
The development was announced in a statement on Thursday in Abuja by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Mr Stanley Nkwocha.
Nkwocha said the leave would enable the Vice President to devote time to study and reflection as part of efforts to strengthen his capacity.
He explained that the period would provide an opportunity for Shettima to review the administration’s ongoing programmes and assess key policy priorities.
According to him, the leave would also deepen the vice president’s understanding of emerging national and global policy issues.
He added that the exercise would better prepare Shettima for future responsibilities as the Federal Government intensifies implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the Vice President has remained actively engaged in the coordination and supervision of several strategic government initiatives,” Nkwocha said.
He noted that Shettima had played significant roles in economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation.
Nkwocha said the Vice President had also chaired meetings of the National Economic Council, a key intergovernmental policy-making platform.
He explained that the council comprises governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other senior public officials.
“As well as other relevant public officials to deliberate on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians,” he stated.
Nkwocha further highlighted Shettima’s contributions to Nigeria’s engagement with the international community on critical development matters.
“Beyond his responsibilities within the country, Vice President Shettima has represented President Tinubu at major international and regional engagements,” he said.
He added that the Vice President had consistently advanced Nigeria’s position on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development.
Nkwocha said Shettima remained committed to the values of loyalty, duty and service that had characterised his role in the administration.
He said the Vice President had continued to support President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.
“As well as supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria,” Nkwocha said.
He disclosed that Shettima would return to office at the end of the two-week leave period.