Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has expressed optimism that the country will soon overcome its security challenges, assuring citizens that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to restore peace nationwide.
Shettima made the remarks on Tuesday in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, during an event where he officially received Governor Dauda Lawal into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He emphasised that the administration is committed to safeguarding lives and property, expressing hope for greater unity and progress under Tinubu’s leadership.
The Vice President noted that Lawal’s defection to the APC would strengthen collaborative efforts to tackle insecurity, particularly in states facing persistent threats. He assured the governor of full support from both the Federal Government and the ruling party.
Prominent political figures at the event welcomed the development, describing it as a significant shift in Zamfara’s political landscape.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio, said APC lawmakers were fully aligned with the governor’s decision, stressing that collaboration among leaders is key to addressing security challenges.
Similarly, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas described the defection as a turning point, suggesting it could usher in a new phase of political unity in the state.
Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, also welcomed Lawal, assuring him of support from fellow APC governors.
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda commended the governor’s performance and formally presented him with the party’s flag, signalling his full integration into the ruling party.
In his response, Governor Lawal expressed appreciation for the support he has received and pledged to work with past leaders for the development of Zamfara State.
He specifically acknowledged the contributions of former governor and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, as well as Senator Abdulazeez Yari.
Lawal assured residents of his commitment to governance, unity, and improved development outcomes under the APC platform.
