Shettima at 60: Mahmoud Alfa Hails VP’s Commitment to Public Service

The Kogi East senatorial aspirant, Dr. Mahmoud Bala Alfa, has described Vice President Kashim Shettima as a leader whose personal example and commitment to public service inspired him to move from the business world into elective politics.

Alfa stated this in a goodwill message to mark Shettima’s 60th birthday, in which he praised the Vice President for his years of service and the personal guidance and encouragement he had received from him.

According to Alfa, although he grew up in a political family and had remained close to politics for much of his life, his main interest had always been the business world.

He said his decision to seek elective public office was influenced in no small way by his relationship with Shettima.

“I have always loved the business world. Even though I have been close to politics for most of my life, having come from a political family, I was never in a hurry to seek elective public office. But you gave me every reason to take that step,” Alfa said.

He explained that spending time with Shettima had given him a different understanding of what public service should mean.

“No one can spend time around you and not begin to understand why public service matters,” he said.

Alfa praised the Vice President for the sacrifices he makes in carrying out his responsibilities, noting that the demands of high public office require constant commitment and a willingness to put the interests of others first.

“The demands of your office are enormous, the expectations are high, yet you continue to show up, listen, work and give your best. Sometimes, I genuinely wonder how you manage to do all that you do,” he said.

He also spoke about Shettima’s journey from the banking sector to the governorship of Borno State and eventually to the Vice Presidency, saying it had given him a deep understanding of leadership and responsibility.

“For you, it has always been about accepting responsibility, making difficult decisions, making sacrifices and remaining committed to the people,” Alfa said.

The businessman and politician also described Shettima as a person who is willing to listen and offer advice, saying his counsel and encouragement had been valuable to him.

“I have had the privilege of knowing you beyond the office you occupy. I have seen your kindness, your willingness to listen and your readiness to offer counsel when it matters. Your advice and encouragement have meant a great deal to me,” he said.

Alfa said Nigeria was at an important point in its history and that the experience of leaders who understood the demands of public responsibility remained valuable to the country.

He prayed that God would grant the Vice President continued wisdom, strength and good health as he serves Nigeria.

“May the years ahead bring you greater fulfilment, greater wisdom and many more opportunities to make a difference in the lives of Nigerians,” he said.

Alfa concluded by thanking Shettima for his friendship, counsel and encouragement, describing his example as one of the things that had shaped his own approach to public service.

“Thank you for your friendship, your counsel, your encouragement and, most importantly, the example you continue to set,” he said.

Shettima, a former Governor of Borno State, clocks 60 today, September 2, 2026.

Dr. Mahmoud Bala Alfa is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Vibranium Group.