Kashim Shettima Mustapha is a prominent Nigerian politician who currently serves as the Vice President of Nigeria. Shettima has a successful career in business and banking, who has risen through the ranks to hold key positions in the government.
Early Life And Education
Shettima was born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, Nigeria, Kashim Shettima Mustapha hails from a notable family. He attended Lamisula Primary School in Maiduguri and later Government Community Secondary School in Biu, Borno State. He completed his secondary education at Government Science Secondary School in Potiskum, Yobe State. Shettima then pursued higher education at the University of Maiduguri, where he earned a degree (BSc) in Agricultural Economics in 1989. He furthered his studies at the University of Ibadan, obtaining a master’s degree (MSc) in Agricultural Economics in 1991.
Early Career In Business And Banking
Following his education, Shettima initially ventured into the banking sector. He worked at the Commercial Bank of Africa Limited and later joined the African International Bank Limited, where he rose to the position of Manager. In 2001, Shettima joined Zenith Bank as the head of its main branch in Maiduguri. Over the years, he held various high-ranking positions within the bank, including Senior Manager/Branch Head and Assistant General Manager/Zonal Head (North-East). In 2007, he left the banking sector to enter the state cabinet of Governor Ali Modu Sheriff.
Political Career
Shettima’s political career began in 2007 when he was appointed as the Commissioner for Finance in Borno State. He later served as Commissioner in several other ministries, including Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Education, Agriculture, and Health. In 2011, Shettima emerged as the Governor of Borno State, winning the elections with a significant margin. He was re-elected in 2015, and his tenure as governor was marked by the challenging Boko Haram insurgency. Shettima’s leadership during this period earned him recognition and accolades, including being named Governor of the Year by various organizations.
Role As Vice President
After leaving office as governor in 2019, Shettima was elected as a senator for Borno Central. However, he withdrew from the nomination to become Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election. Shettima was subsequently appointed as the Vice President of Nigeria, assuming office on May 29, 2023. As the Vice President, Shettima is expected to oversee the economic planning team, make recommendations to the president, and assist in decision-making processes.
Personal Life And Honors
Kashim Shettima Mustapha is married to Nana Shettima, and they have three children. Throughout his career, he has received numerous honors and awards, including the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) in May 2023.