Shettima: Marital Unions Are Pillars of Long-term National Development

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described marital unions as fundamental pillars of Nigeria’s social strength and long-term national development.

Specifically, he observed that marriage is not merely a personal milestone but a social institution that nurtures values essential for national cohesion, stability, and progress.

Shettima stated this on Sunday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where he represented President Bola Tinubu at the solemnization of holy matrimony between Miss Deborah Ershima and Mr. Samuel Aondoakur, son of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

Reflecting marital union as a powerful metaphor for the deep integration of lives, the Vice President noted that strong family unions contribute directly to long-term national development and cohesion, just as he said the institution of marriage speaks to something deeply Nigerian and deeply human.

“There are moments in life an event quietly writes itself into memory. Today is one of those moments. We have come together not merely to witness a wedding, but to stand at the intersection of two stories choosing to become one,” he stated.

Shettima commended the families of the couple for raising children grounded in discipline, faith, and character, maintaining that strong families do not emerge by accident but through intentional value formation.

Stressing that successful marriages thrive on alignment, patience, and humility rather than perfection, he said everyday choices such as listening, forgiveness, and mutual support are what sustain homes long after ceremonies end.

“A home is not built by vows alone. It is built by everyday choices. By the decision to return kindness for impatience. By the courage to apologise even when you feel justified. By the humility to ask for help when the road feels longer than expected. These are not weaknesses. They are the quiet strengths that keep marriages standing long after the celebration ends,” he added.

The Vice President further likened the strength of Nigerian families to broader national resilience, insisting that commitment and unity at the household level reflect the country’s enduring capacity to overcome challenges.

He urged parents, relatives, and society at large to support married couples with counsel and goodwill rather than undue pressure, adding that stable homes flourish in an atmosphere of understanding.

Wishing the couple a blissful marital life, Shettima prayed: “Deborah and Samuel, may your home be anchored in trust and sustained by faith. May your laughter outlast your disagreements. May your unity be stronger than any season of challenge. And may the love you begin with today continue to deepen into companionship, respect, and enduring friendship.”

Earlier, the SGF, Senator Akume, paid a glowing tribute to President Tinubu for his transformative leadership since he assumed office in May 2023.

The leadership of Nigeria, he said, is doing very well under President Tinubu, noting that he is in a position to know the functions of government, “the mechanics of government and what government is since 1999.

“I have to pay a very big tribute to our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for honouring this invitation. The quality of representation here is massive and fundamental.

“The Vice President who, in spite of his very busy schedule, is here on behalf of the President. He flew all the way from Maiduguri to Makurdi. I appreciate you. I thank you. The good Lord will continue to bless you,” Akume said.

Also, Governor of Benue State, Father Hyacinth Alia, commended President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their sustained efforts toward repositioning the country for the good of all Nigerians.

The governor, who congratulated the young couple, assured them of his continued support and guidance, saying “it is my hope that this young couple will add a lot of value to the growth and development of Benue State.”

“We wish you well now and always. We pray that you go with God and may he be ahead of you to bless, behind you to protect you, and above you to continually shower his love and blessings upon you,” he added.