The Presidential candidant of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the 2023 presidential election, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday unveiled his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima.
He said Shettima’s choice was hard but the best for him as running mate in the 2023 election.
Tinubu presented his running mate before the party leaders and stakeholders with assuring statement of victory in the 2023 general elections.
He assured the party that it beholds on them as a party to put up concerted efforts to move the nation forward as never before.
He said the party needs to be wise thoughtful and courageous adding that APC must win the 2023 presidential election in order to secure the future of the country by bring jobs, education, food, medicine, hope.
He stated that the party needs to convince the people to believe in a better life.
Tinubu said he is ready for the election and delighted to have Senator Kashim Shettima, who he called his good friend and brother as his running mate.
According to him, while much has been said and written about his decision to select Senator Shettima to partner him in the election, he cherishes and respects all views.
He, however, said he is unwavering in his in the selection of Senator Shettima.
“I stand ready to make this journey and, today, I am delighted to stand shoulder to shoulder with my good friend, brother and running mate; His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima.
“Much has been said and written about my decision to select Senator Shettima to partner me on this journey.
“As a committed democrat and progressive, I have read and listened to all that has been written and said. It has been an emotional and moving period. I understand the strength of feeling that has been displayed by some within our party and I cherish and respect the views of all.
“Yet, I remain steadfast in my belief in the selection of Senator Shettima. I am unwavering in my belief that he is the very best person to run for office and to, hopefully, govern by my side.
” I believe in the project this party embarked on at the moment of its foundation. I believe our diversity is our strength and I believe that we must be victorious in order to achieve the greatness of which this country is capable.
“All my life, my decisions regarding the team around and supporting me have always been guided by the principles of competence, innovation, compassion, integrity, fairness, and adherence to excellence
“In politics, these principles are sacrosanct. Without them there can be neither victory nor good governance.
“I applied them as Governor of Lagos. I apply them again now
“This chapter in our nation’s history demands a bold yet pragmatic approach. In selecting Senator Shettima I have committed myself to this path. I have made the hard choice because I believe it is the best choice.
“This is where politics must end and leadership must begin. True Leadership is not grounded in religion, populism or sentiment. To forge ahead as a nation toward development and prosperity, we must break free of old binds
“Senator Kashim Shettima’s career in politics and beyond shows that he is eminently qualified not only to deliver that all important electoral victory, but, also, step into the shoes of the Vice President. As a man with the talent, maturity, strength of character, and patriotism he has my implicit confidence and faith.” Tinubu said.