Don’t place advertisement to celebrate my birthday- Shettima tells well-wishers

Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on well-wishers to refrain from placing advertisements to mark his 58th birthday on September 2.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President expressed his desire for a modest celebration without the fanfare of public adverts.

The presidency said the Vice president also appealed to fellow Nigerians, associates, and supporters across the country to resist the urge to publish congratulatory messages in newspapers or through paid media channels.

The Vice President’s request comes as President Bola Tinubu had also requested a low-profile celebration, urging well-wishers to express their goodwill in more personal and private ways.

“As it is always the tradition on special days such as this, it is not unexpected that family members, friends and associates would want to make the day a remarkable one for him – celebrating his dedication to excellence, compassion in leadership, and commitment to teamwork in the bid to drive the nation to success and growth.

“However, the Vice President will not want an elaborate pageantry marking the day. Accordingly, he has appealed to his fellow compatriots, associates and numerous well-wishers across the country to resist the desire to place congratulatory birthday advertisements on pages of newspapers or utilise paid channels to convey their wishes and greetings.

“As this auspicious moment draws closer, VP Shettima fervently implores family members, friends, and associates who may wish to place goodwill messages as advertisements to kindly donate the funds to charity organisations and vulnerable citizens instead. This aligns with the commitment of the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to addressing issues of development and economic growth, as well as improving the living conditions of Nigerians.

“As he prepares to use this special moment to reflect and recommit himself to the tenets of responsive and good governance for the overall benefit of the people, the Vice President remains ever grateful for the goodwill he enjoys from Nigerians and the best wishes a great number of his well-wishers have demonstrated towards him over the years”.