Vice President Kashim Shettima will mark his 60th birthday on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, but has asked friends, associates and supporters to shun public celebrations and congratulatory advertisements in honour of the occasion.
Shettima made the request in a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.
The Vice President urged well-wishers not to place birthday messages in newspapers or broadcast them on radio, television and digital platforms, stressing his preference for a quiet and reflective celebration.
He said the decision was informed by the need to keep public attention on the country’s development priorities and the challenges facing Nigerians rather than on his personal milestone.
Shettima appealed to those intending to celebrate his birthday to instead dedicate the occasion to prayers for Nigeria and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, such prayers should focus on the success of the Federal Government’s economic reforms, the resolution of the country’s security challenges, national unity, peace and improved prosperity for Nigerians.
“To ensure absolute propriety, I respectfully appeal that there should be no public birthday celebrations, congratulatory gatherings or goodwill advertorials across print, broadcast and digital media platforms,” the Vice President said.
He described his 60th birthday as an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and renewed dedication to national service.
Shettima expressed appreciation to his friends, associates and well-wishers for their goodwill and support over the years, but asked them to demonstrate their affection through prayers rather than elaborate celebrations or publicity.
He particularly sought prayers for the administration’s economic agenda, greater national cohesion, improved security and the overall wellbeing of Nigerians.
