Vice President Kashim Shettima has appealed to Nigerians not to spend money on gifts, advertisements or elaborate celebrations for his 60th birthday, asking them instead to direct such resources to people and causes that need support. Shettima, who clocks 60 on Wednesday, made the request in a statement shared on his X account on Tuesday […]

Vice President Kashim Shettima has appealed to Nigerians not to spend money on gifts, advertisements or elaborate celebrations for his 60th birthday, asking them instead to direct such resources to people and causes that need support.

Shettima, who clocks 60 on Wednesday, made the request in a statement shared on his X account on Tuesday night, saying the milestone had strengthened his resolve to make the appeal he has repeatedly made over the years.

The Vice President expressed appreciation for the prayers, goodwill and affection he has received from Nigerians, friends, supporters and associates during previous birthdays.

However, he said those intending to honour him should avoid spending money on material gifts or projects in his name and should instead use the opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.

According to Shettima, reaching 60 should encourage deeper reflection about the purpose of life, moving people away from the pursuit of material accumulation and toward gratitude, generosity and service to others.

He said the milestone age should prompt people to ask not only what they have acquired but also what they have contributed to their communities and the wider society.

The Vice President urged anyone planning to celebrate him to consider donating the money they would have spent to a charity, a worthy cause or an individual in need anywhere in Nigeria.

He stressed that generosity is not determined solely by how much a person gives, noting that even a small act of kindness can have profound meaning when offered at the right time.

Shettima also reflected on the role other people have played in his journey to 60, saying nobody reaches a significant stage in life entirely through personal effort.

He acknowledged the contributions of family, friends, teachers, colleagues, supporters, well-wishers and strangers, saying such acts of kindness create a responsibility to extend similar kindness to others.

The Vice President specifically requested prayers instead of birthday gifts and advertisements, asking Nigerians to pray for him as well as for the country.

He called for prayers for peace in Nigerian communities, prosperity for citizens, wisdom among the nation’s leaders and the realisation of Nigeria’s enormous potential.

Shettima highlighted the country’s youthful population, entrepreneurial spirit, hardworking citizens and cultural diversity as important national strengths.

Concluding his birthday message, the Vice President thanked Nigerians for their continued support and goodwill, and wished them long life, good health, fulfilment and the satisfaction of helping people who may never be able to repay them.