Shettima Returns Early from Leave Ahead of 2027 Campaigns

Vice President Kashim Shettima returned to Abuja on August 18, 2026, two days ahead of his scheduled return date of August 20, 2026, after a two-week leave that commenced on August 6, 2026. This leave was his first since being sworn into office on May 29, 2023, and was approved by President Bola Tinubu.

During the leave, Shettima was expected to engage in “study, reflection and intellectual renewal,” as stated by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha. The Vice President's early return coincides with the commencement of election campaigns on August 19, 2026, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, in preparation for the 2027 elections.

Although he returned to work, Shettima did not attend the Federal Executive Council meeting on August 18, 2026. Since assuming office, he has been actively involved in various government initiatives, including economic development, food security, and humanitarian affairs, and chairs the National Economic Council.