Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for a deeper collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government in Nigeria. Speaking at a dinner with members of the National Assembly, hosted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima stressed that the two arms must work together to build a nation that works for all citizens.
The vice president noted that the current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, has enjoyed a harmonious relationship with the legislature, which is the best since the return of democracy in 1999. He attributed this to the leadership, foresight, and collective resolve of the two arms of government.
Shettima, who is a former member of the National Assembly, pointed out that many key officials in the presidency, including the president, the First Lady, and himself, are alumni of the federal legislature. He said this has fostered a sense of understanding and familiarity between the executive and legislative arms.
The vice president emphasized that democracy thrives when there is understanding and recognition of the roles and responsibilities of each arm of government. He commended the First Lady for her commitment to protecting the interests and dignity of the National Assembly and for promoting women’s participation in governance.
Shettima also acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, including insecurity, and called for a collective effort to address them. He urged the lawmakers and members of the executive to work together, relying on the wisdom of their predecessors, to build a safer and more prosperous nation.
Earlier, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured that the National Assembly is united in supporting the president in addressing security challenges. Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas thanked the First Lady for her contributions to national development and advocated for more representation for women in governance.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Governors’ Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma, also called for more support for women’s participation in governance, describing them as managers of homes who would do well in key positions of government. The governor solicited more seats for women at all levels of government, emphasizing the need for inclusion and justice for all.
The dinner, which was attended by members of the National Assembly and other top government officials, reinforced the commitment of the executive and legislative arms to work together to build a better Nigeria. The collaboration is expected to yield positive results, particularly in addressing the nation’s security challenges and promoting economic growth and development.