By Yusuf Ali
The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari has left a profound void in Northern Nigeria's political landscape and the nation's leadership fabric. As tributes pour in and Nigerians reflect on his legacy, the question of who can truly carry forward his towering political influence emerges.
While many names surface, Vice President Kashim Shettima stands apart, possessing unparalleled credibility, competence, and capacity – a statesman whose steady rise is built on merit, service, and integrity.
In the wake of President Buhari’s death, Vice President Shettima demonstrated his profound connection as true son of the North and his loyalty to the late leader. He emerged not just as a mourner, but as a central figure coordinating the state burial arrangements.
Working tirelessly, he ensured the departed president received a dignified and befitting farewell, meticulously aligned with Islamic rites and national tradition. His leadership encompassed liaising with the family in London and coordinating security and protocol teams for the reception of Buhari’s remains in Daura.
His composure and dedication during this sensitive period won widespread admiration. It was these extraordinary efforts that prompted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to personally commend Vice President Shettima, describing him as “a loyal patriot and dependable partner” in the effort to honour Buhari’s national legacy.
Vice President Shettima’s qualifications for leadership are deeply rooted in proven public service and performance, particularly during challenging times. Before his election as Vice President in 2023, he served two impactful terms as Governor of Borno State (2011–2019), where he courageously navigated one of Nigeria’s most volatile security environments.
His innovative approach rebuilt lives and communities devastated by insurgency. Prior to the vice presidency, he represented Borno Central in the Senate (2019–2023), where his intellectual contributions and eloquence significantly elevated discourse in the National Assembly.
Shettima's extensive executive experience includes serving as Commissioner in five strategic ministries – Finance, Agriculture, Education, and Health among them – making him one of Northern Nigeria’s most comprehensively rounded public servants.
His background as a banker and agricultural economist further equips him with a strong grasp of economic development, food security, and fiscal planning, skills critically needed in today’s challenging economic climate.
Beyond his impressive resume, Shettima uniquely blends intellectual depth with genuine mass appeal. His speeches consistently reflect profound philosophical insight, patriotic fervor, and a nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s intricate socio-political dynamics.
His reputation as a powerful orator, bridge-builder, and visionary has earned him respect that transcends regional and religious divides – an indispensable trait in the nation’s current climate.
Undoubtedly, Shettima has remained steadfastly loyal to the progressive cause, actively promoting the ideals of discipline, accountability, and nation-building that defined Buhari’s political persona.
It is this combination of consistent service, principled loyalty, and broad-based appeal across the North that uniquely positions Vice President Shettima to step into Buhari’s political shoes. Where others have fragmented the base or shifted allegiance, Shettima has held firm ground within the APC, diligently building bridges and safeguarding Buhari’s political legacy.
His actions during the former president’s funeral, which earned President Tinubu’s glowing commendation, powerfully affirm his humility, unwavering loyalty, and mature leadership. As Nigeria bids farewell to a leader synonymous with integrity, it must also look forward.
In Vice President Kashim Shettima, the nation – and especially the North – has a ready, capable, and worthy successor to President Buhari’s political mantle. For a region seeking continuity, dignity, and progress, Kashim Shettima is not merely a successor; he stands as the standard-bearer of the future, ensuring the legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari lives on through those who served him with honour, loyalty, and vision.
...Yusuf Ali is a Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Yobe State Governor. NNL.
