December 28, 2025 9:07 pm
L-R: Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Governor of Benue State, Dr Hyacinth Alia. Credit: Nwakocha Stanley | X
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday described marital unions as fundamental pillars of Nigeria’s social strength and long-term national development, saying strong families nurture the values essential for national cohesion, stability and progress.
Shettima, according to a statement titled “Marital Unions Are Pillars of Long-term National Development,” issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, spoke in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the wedding ceremony between Miss Deborah Ershima and Mr Samuel Aondoakura, son of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Earlier, the Vice President arrived in Benue State to grace the wedding reception, where he was received by the SGF and the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, alongside other top government officials.
Upon arrival, Shettima observed a Guard of Honour mounted in his honour before proceeding to the venue of the ceremony.
Speaking at the solemnization, the Vice President said marriage was not merely a personal milestone but a vital social institution that strengthens society and supports long-term national development.
“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 said.
Shettima noted that strong family unions contribute directly to national cohesion, adding that the institution of marriage reflects values that are “deeply Nigerian and deeply human.”
He commended the families of the couple for raising children grounded in discipline, faith and character, stressing that strong homes are built intentionally and not by chance.
“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,” the Vice President said.
According to him, successful marriages thrive on patience, humility and alignment, noting that everyday acts such as listening, forgiveness and mutual support sustain families long after wedding ceremonies.
Drawing a link between family life and nation-building, Shettima said unity and commitment at the household level mirror Nigeria’s resilience and capacity to overcome challenges. He urged parents, relatives and society to support married couples with counsel and goodwill rather than undue pressure.
While praying for the couple, the Vice President said, “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.”
Earlier, the SGF, Senator Akume, paid tribute to President Tinubu for what he described as transformative leadership since assuming office in May 2023.
“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,” Akume said.
Governor Hyacinth Alia also commended President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their efforts aimed at repositioning the country, congratulating the couple and wishing them a prosperous marital life.
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev; Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo; Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment, Mr Silas Agara, as well as members of the National and Benue State Assemblies.
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