Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the Federal Government’s strong commitment to ensuring lasting peace, stability, and economic development in Plateau State and across the country.
Speaking during his condolence visit to the National Chairman of the Council of Ulama Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa’Ikamatis Sunnah, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, in Jos on Saturday, the vice president emphasized the administration’s dedication to fostering national unity and progress.
Shettima conveyed a message from President Bola Tinubu, stating, “President Bola Tinubu specifically directed me to convey his heartfelt condolences and to assure the people of Plateau that this administration places high premium on the peace and economic prosperity of this strategic state. We recognize the critical role Plateau plays in our national cohesion and development agenda.”
The Vice-President, who visited Jos to sympathize with Sheikh Jingir over the passing of his close associate, Sheikh Saidu Hassan Jingir, also commended the peace-building efforts of the Plateau State government. “We must acknowledge and applaud the tireless efforts of the state government in maintaining the peace we now enjoy in Plateau. This administration will continue to support these initiatives because without peace, there can be no meaningful development,” Shettima remarked.
During the visit, Shettima offered prayers for the soul of the late Sheikh Saidu Hassan Jingir, who served as the Deputy National Chairman of the Ulama Council of JIBWIS. He also prayed for the continued peace, stability, and progress of the nation. “I want to assure all Nigerians that better days lie ahead. The economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are designed with the long-term prosperity of our nation in mind. We are already seeing early positive indicators, and we ask for your continued patience and support,” he added.
Sheikh Jingir, in his remarks, expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice-President Shettima for their empathy during this difficult time. “This visit demonstrates the human side of governance that often goes unnoticed. We are deeply touched by this gesture,” he said. He also commended the administration for its responsiveness to the needs of the people.
“We are grateful to Allah for the good work President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima are doing for Nigeria. True leadership requires commitment and patience with the people at all times, and this administration has shown both,” Sheikh Jingir remarked.
The religious leader further praised the government’s action in addressing infrastructure needs. He specifically cited the swift response to the request for the repair of the Jos-Saminaka-Kaduna road, noting, “When we requested that the Jos-Saminaka-Kaduna road be fixed, you not only listened but acted swiftly. The Federal Executive Council’s approval of N33 billion for the reconstruction of that critical road is evidence of a government that cares for its citizens.”
On the administration’s economic policies, Sheikh Jingir expressed optimism, stating, “The economic and agricultural initiatives of this government have begun yielding tangible results. We are witnessing a gradual but steady reduction in the prices of essential commodities, particularly foodstuff. This offers hope to ordinary Nigerians and validates the direction of your policies.”
Regarding the security situation in Plateau State, Sheikh Jingir highlighted the positive developments, saying, “I am pleased to inform you that peace has come to stay in our beloved state. The followers of Islam, Christianity, and other faiths have collectively resolved to embrace peaceful coexistence as the only path forward.”
He also mentioned the unity displayed during the funeral of the late Sheikh Saidu Hassan Jingir, noting, “This unity of purpose was clearly demonstrated during the funeral of our departed brother, Sheikh Saidu Hassan Jingir, when people from diverse religious backgrounds and all sections of the state gathered in unprecedented numbers to pay their respects. This is the Plateau we want to see and build upon.”
The Vice-President’s visit was concluded with expressions of gratitude for the unity demonstrated in the state. He concluded, “While we mourn our loss, we submit to the will of Allah. Death is inevitable for all mortals, and we find solace in the exemplary life our brother lived.”
The Vice-President was received at the Yakubu Gowon Airport by Plateau State’s Deputy Governor, Mrs. Josephine Piyo. His delegation included the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice-President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ahmed Wase; Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu; and Special Adviser to the President on General Duties (Office of the Vice-President), Aliyu Modibbo Umar.
