Shettima Acknowledges Economic Hardship, Urges Nigerians to Re-elect Tinubu

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has acknowledged the economic hardship facing Nigerians while urging voters to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

Shettima made the appeal on Monday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar, Cross River State.

He defended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, describing them as difficult but necessary decisions that had laid the foundation for future growth and prosperity.

According to the Vice-President, the administration had completed the most difficult phase of its economic restructuring and was now positioned to deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

He urged citizens to give the Tinubu administration another opportunity, arguing that the reforms needed more time to produce their intended results.

“We are confident of this promise to deliver for this nation because we have already done the most difficult job of economic reset. None of the other options available has the capacity to move the needle of the economy. We have rescued the economy, and the road ahead is one of harvest,” Shettima said.

He added that the proposed second term would focus on delivering prosperity and improving the lives of Nigerians.

“I therefore stand before you today to ask you, once again, to renew the mandate of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and myself as Vice President,” he said.

Shettima also appealed to Cross River residents to support Governor Bassey Otu and his deputy, Peter Odey, for another term in office.

He described the relationship between the APC and the people as an alliance built on progress, opportunity, prosperity and dignity.

The Vice-President cited the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as one of the infrastructure projects expected to benefit Cross River State, saying it would improve transportation, facilitate trade, promote tourism and attract investment.

Governor Otu, who also addressed the rally, highlighted federal projects expected to create economic opportunities in the state, including the proposed Bakassi Deep Seaport and the Gulf of Guinea Commission Secretariat in Calabar.

The rally was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC governors, members of the National Assembly, party officials and other political stakeholders.

Shettima’s appeal comes amid continuing public debate over the impact of the Federal Government’s economic reforms and the cost of living in Nigeria.