An aide to Vice President Kashim Shettima has provided a rare glimpse into the demanding operational culture and leadership philosophy that defines the Vice President's office.
Beyond the Public Eye: A Gruelling Work Schedule
Stanley Nkwocha, who works closely with the Vice President, made these revelations on Wednesday, January 1, 2026. He stated that while the public sees formal engagements, the core of governance often happens in quieter, intense moments of reflection and work.
Nkwocha described a work routine that stretches far beyond normal hours. He noted that Vice President Shettima regularly reviews policy documents, annotates memos, and clarifies strategic directions deep into the night. Matters slated for high-level forums like the National Economic Council (NEC) frequently receive the Vice President's personal attention in the early hours of the morning.
A Leadership Blend of Intellect and Empathy
According to his aide, Shettima's approach combines intellectual rigour with a genuine sense of empathy. Nkwocha emphasized that the Vice President takes a personal interest in staff welfare and insists on understanding the human impact behind every policy recommendation presented to him.
This principle is physically reflected in Shettima's private library, which doubles as a strategic command centre. The space houses books on economics, history, conflict resolution, agriculture, and Nigerian affairs alongside official briefing papers. Nkwocha said this blend underscores the VP's belief that effective governance must be rooted in knowledge, context, and the lived realities of citizens.
Hands-On Governance and National Bridge-Building
The aide highlighted that excellence is non-negotiable in the Vice President's office. Shettima is hands-on with economic inclusion programmes, including MSME initiatives, where he demands real data over sanitised reports. He pushes for immediate policy adjustments when gaps affecting vulnerable groups are identified.
On national cohesion, Nkwocha described reconciliation as a defining feature of Shettima's leadership. The Vice President prioritises dialogue and engagement during moments of political, ethnic, or communal tension. Shettima approaches conflict not as a partisan actor but as a national bridge-builder focused on unity and long-term stability.
This insider account paints a picture of a Vice President's office driven by late-night diligence, a deep commitment to informed policy, and a leadership style that values both the intellectual and human dimensions of governance.
