Calls for Constructive Criticism, Support for Government Policies

The wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as one that is laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

Speaking at an annual Ramadan feast in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Hajiya Nana Shettima highlighted the president’s economic policies, empowerment programmes, and strategic investments as key pillars of his vision for national development.

“President Tinubu is baking a new cake for all of us—not just for today but for future generations,” she said. “His administration, with the support of our First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is working tirelessly to ensure a better Nigeria for our children and grandchildren.”

Shettima urged Nigerians to approach government policies with constructive criticism, rather than political attacks, emphasising that engagement and collaboration would help strengthen national progress.

“We should be open to giving useful advice and providing constructive feedback rather than engaging in baseless criticisms,” she added.

She also called on Nigerians to continue praying for the president and his administration, assuring them that Tinubu has the best interests of the country at heart.

“I can confidently say that the president means well, not just for Borno State but for the entire nation. We should always remember him and his team in our prayers,” she said.

Hajiya Nana Shettima commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her leadership in spearheading the Renewed Hope Initiative, a programme that has provided support for women, children, and people with disabilities across the country.

“Her efforts have touched many lives, and through this initiative, she is reinforcing the administration’s commitment to social welfare,” Shettima noted.

Also speaking at the event, Dr Asabe Bashir, Director General of the Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, urged Nigerians to uphold the values of Ramadan beyond the fasting period and to continue praying for the nation’s progress.

“We have just completed the holy month of Ramadan, a time of deep spiritual reflection. Let us carry forward the lessons learnt and continue to seek divine guidance for our leaders,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for selecting a vice president from Borno State, acknowledging the significance of the decision for the region.

“We must appreciate the president for this recognition. The last time Borno had a vice president was during the MKO Abiola era with Ambassador Babagana Kingibe. This is a moment of pride for us,” Dr Bashir remarked. 

Youth Assembly of Nigeria Speaker, Tijjani Abubakar, applauded the administration’s youth-focused initiatives, which he said were creating new opportunities for young Nigerians.

Similarly, Dr Martins Ekunke, representing South-South, Yoruba, and Igbo communities in Borno, praised the First Lady’s advocacy for people living with HIV/AIDS through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

The event, hosted by Hajiya Nana Shettima, was attended by prominent women leaders, political figures, students, and community representatives. Among them were the wives of key state officials, female commissioners, and members of various women and youth organisations.