Vice President Kashim Shettima was seen on Friday in Maiduguri interacting with local Fulani men, urging them to enroll their children in schools established by the Borno State Government. Shettima’s visit was part of the inauguration of key infrastructure projects, including a 400-bed teaching hospital at Kashim Ibrahim University and the Yerwa Practice Mega School.
While engaging with Fulani acquaintances who serve as security guards at the hospital, Shettima inquired about familiar faces and shared light-hearted moments with the group. He was particularly surprised to see how much a young boy he had known had grown over the years, and he expressed concern for a woman he referred to as his mother, who could not attend the gathering due to unforeseen circumstances.
In a light-hearted exchange, Shettima humorously retrieved a pocket mirror from one of the men’s pockets, showcasing it to Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum. Following his interactions, Shettima presented a cash gift to the group, instructing them to share it while reiterating his message on the importance of education.
Shettima challenged the Fulani men, saying, “The governor has built schools, but you are not enrolling your children. What is the problem?” In response to their mention of searching for suitable schools, he directed them to a nearby school where their children could enroll. Governor Zulum assured the group that the state government would assist with any challenges they faced.
Shettima later reflected on the visit in a Facebook post, expressing how he missed the warmth and good-natured banter of his Fulani acquaintances. He highlighted the significance of the commissioned projects and aligned them with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, which focuses on building institutions, developing human capital, and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians.
In his remarks, Shettima emphasized the vital role of sustainable development and investment in education and healthcare as key factors for economic productivity and recovery in communities affected by insecurity.
