Kashim Shettima Says Bold Decisions Define Effective Leadership

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said effective leadership requires courage, firm decisions, and a willingness to act in the wider interest of society.

Speaking at an event, Shettima praised Rwandan President Paul Kagame for his leadership while explaining that governing Nigeria presents different challenges because of its large population.

“People celebrate Rwanda. I adore Paul Kagame. People talk about Seychelles. Yes, the economy has turned the corner. But what is the population of Botswana? Not more than Shomolu Local Government Area of Lagos. What is the population of Seychelles? Not more than two wards in Kano metropolis. What is the population of Rwanda? The population of Rwanda is half the population of Lagos State. So numbers count. Take it or leave it. Nigeria is a great nation.”

The Vice President encouraged Nigerians to reconnect with the country’s agricultural roots, describing agriculture investment as a major opportunity for economic growth, employment, and improved livelihoods.

Shettima also praised Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for his quick response to a proposed $500 million investment in oil palm production by a Malaysian company. He said the governor’s willingness to support the project showed practical leadership.

“I called the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno. First dial, he picked the phone… These are people who are willing to invest 500 million dollars on oil palm. They will start with 10,000 hectares in Akwa Ibom. He said, ‘Give them, let them come and start work at once.’ This is leadership. Leadership means walking the talk.”

Shettima said effective leadership is not about seeking approval from everyone but making difficult choices that support national progress.

“Leadership is about taking parochial decision. And leadership is not meant for nice men. Nice men should be selling chocolates and ice cream.”

What qualities do you believe define strong leadership in today’s world?