Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria has the capacity to rank among the greatest nations in the world if citizens embrace tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence.
Shettima made the remarks on Wednesday in Jos, Plateau State, during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, Jacob Gyang Buba.
According to the Vice President, Nigerians are bound by a shared heritage that outweighs ethnic, religious or political differences.
“We are all connected one way or the other. We must continue to live together. What binds us together supersedes what separates us,” he said.
Shettima, who was in the state for the grand reception of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other politicians into the All Progressives Congress (APC), described traditional rulers as critical pillars of society.
“They are not just custodians of our cultural heritage. They play vital roles in promoting peace and stability among their people,” he said.
He also commended the growing political harmony between the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and Governor Mutfwang, describing the alignment as a positive development for Plateau State.
“The coming together of leaders who once stood on opposite sides is a good omen. There can be no development without peace, and this unity will bring greater dividends of democracy to the people,” Shettima added.
Earlier, Governor Mutfwang praised the working relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, expressing confidence that it would continue to benefit the country.
In his remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos appealed to the Federal Government to intensify security efforts across the country, particularly in Plateau State.
“We appreciate the work of our security agencies, but more needs to be done. Nigerians must respect one another and live in peace. Our religions do not support violence or bloodshed,” the monarch said.
He also welcomed the political realignment in the state, describing it as a step that would enhance peace, reconciliation and development.
