Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians to embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence, stressing that the country’s unity and shared heritage outweigh factors that threaten to divide its people.
Shettima made the remarks on Wednesday in Jos, Plateau State, during a visit to the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, HRH Jacob Gyang Buba. In a statement issued by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said that Nigeria has the potential to become one of the greatest nations in the world if citizens learn to live together in peace.
“We are all connected one way or the other. We must, therefore, continue to live together. What binds us together supersedes what separates us,” Shettima said. He noted that traditional rulers are critical to nation-building, describing them as respected leaders who promote peace and stability within their communities.
“They are not just custodians of our cultural heritage; they help in upholding society by preaching peace among their subjects,” he added.
The Vice President was in the state for the grand reception of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and other political leaders into the All Progressives Congress (APC). He commended the improving relationship between the governor and the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, saying the political realignment would enhance development and stability in the state.
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“There can be no development without peace. With their coming together, the state will enjoy more peace and dividends of democracy,” Shettima said, adding that the cooperation would further strengthen Plateau State’s image and contribute to lasting peace in the state and the country at large.
Governor Mutfwang praised the working relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, saying it continued to benefit the nation. The Gbong Gwom Jos also called for improved security across Plateau State and other parts of the country, stressing that Nigerians must respect one another and that both Islam and Christianity reject violence and bloodshed. He described the political realignment in the state as a positive development for both Plateau State and the nation.
Members of Shettima’s entourage included APC National Chairman Prof. Yilwatda, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Idris Wase, and members of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.