From the mouth of Vice-President Kashim Shettima, comes this reassuring message, that Nigerians will benefit from the challenges posed by the present administration’s policies, which he described as necessary steps toward building a.nation.filled with.prosperity
The vice president spoke on Monday in Abuja at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.
Shettima, who was represented by Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, his special adviser on political matters, acknowledged the difficulties citizens are facing but assured them that the government remains focused on long-term goals.
“I would like to assure Nigerians that our administration is acutely aware of many concerns over our direction and goals, particularly given the difficulties which some of our policies inevitably generate,” he said.
“We are involved in correcting many defects in our economy and approaches to securing the citizen.
“We have been honest to admit that this transition from a broken past and a promising future will not be without a price, and we will remain focussed on easing the pain and ensuring that we do not take our eyes off the goals.
“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account our stewardship in all manners our challenging democratic systems demands
“I am convinced that we will reap the benefits of our current, unavoidable difficulties. I am convinced that Nigeria shall rise again, answer to its full potential and lead the way to a future that would have learnt lessons from a difficult past into a world in which our country will be a key player, and our young will be active champions of a democratic system because it speaks to them.”
Shettima stated that democracy, though not perfect, remains the best form of government.
“It has been said many times that democracy is an imperfect system, yet superior to all others,” he said.
“We will continue to seek to provide evidence of the values of the democratic systems by, among others, fixing major weaknesses of our economy, securing our communities, fighting corruption, supporting free and fair elections, strengthening the independence of the judiciary and improving national cohesion.
“I would like to appeal to fellow Nigerians to join us in this challenging but ultimately rewarding journey.”
