Vice President Kashim Shettima has appealed to Nigerians, friends and associates to mark his 60th birthday by offering prayers and extending support to people and causes in need rather than purchasing gifts for him.
Shettima, who is set to clock 60 on Thursday, made the appeal in a birthday message ahead of the celebration.
The Vice President said he was grateful for the goodwill, prayers and affection he had received from people over the years, but stressed that he did not want anyone to incur significant expenses in his honour.
He said, “Please do not spend a kobo on a gift for me, nor undertake any venture of material consequence in my honour.”
According to him, reaching the age of 60 should encourage greater reflection, gratitude and commitment to giving back to society.
Shettima urged those who had planned to spend money celebrating him to instead donate to a charity, support a worthy cause or assist an individual in need anywhere in Nigeria.
He said generosity should not be judged solely by the amount given, noting that even a modest act of kindness could make a significant difference in another person’s life.
The Vice President said, “Sometimes the smallest kindness arrives at precisely the moment another person needs to be reminded that humanity has not forgotten them.”
He also acknowledged the role played by family members, friends, teachers, colleagues, supporters and strangers in helping individuals attain meaningful milestones, saying such goodwill should be repaid by extending similar kindness to others.
Shettima said every act of assistance rendered to someone in need would be meaningful to him as he celebrates the milestone.
“Every hand that lifts another somewhere in Nigeria tomorrow will be a candle lit for me,” he said.
Rather than gifts, advertisements and elaborate celebrations, the Vice President asked Nigerians to pray for him and the country.
He called for prayers for peace across Nigerian communities, improved prosperity, wisdom among the nation’s leaders and the realisation of Nigeria’s potential.
Shettima also expressed optimism about the country’s future, highlighting the resilience, enterprise, creativity and youthful population of Nigerians as important national assets.
He concluded by appreciating Nigerians for their friendship, loyalty and prayers, while wishing them long life, good health, fulfilment and the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.
