The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Parliament in the North-East on Friday celebrated Vice President Kashim Shettima’s 59th birthday by securing the release of 59 inmates from the Bauchi Correctional Facility and extending financial assistance to an equal number of orphans.
At the ceremony, the Parliament’s Chairman, Kabiru Kobi, explained that the initiative was meant to reflect Shettima’s 59 years and his commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.
“We paid millions of naira to settle fines and compensations for 59 inmates, enabling them to regain their freedom.
“We also provided financial support for 59 orphans and donated medicines for other inmates.
“This is our way of celebrating a leader who has remained committed to humanity,” Kobi said.
He described the VP as a visionary, patriotic leader whose humility and resilience continue to inspire young Nigerians, likening his influence in the North-East to that of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
Also speaking, APC chieftain, Comrade Sabo Muhammad, urged the Youth Parliament to replicate the initiative across the state’s zones, while cautioning against attempts to undermine Shettima’s political relevance ahead of the 2027 elections.
He further called on residents to participate actively in the ongoing national voter registration exercise, describing it as the most effective way to enthrone leaders of their choice.
One of the freed inmates, Bashir Ahmad, who was earlier fined ₦30,000, expressed gratitude to the APC Youth Parliament and Shettima for “giving him a new lease of life.”
The event ended with special prayers for Shettima, wishing him long life, good health, and continued service to the nation.
According to The Punch’s report, “the APC Youth Parliament’s gesture reflects a growing trend among political support groups in Nigeria to celebrate leaders through social impact initiatives rather than lavish ceremonies.“
The report further stated that easing prison overcrowding remains a key national concern, as many inmates across Nigeria continue to languish in custody simply because they cannot afford fines for petty offences.
The programme also reflects the APC’s broader effort to rally support for Shettima in the North-East before the 2027 general elections, projecting him as a pivotal player in the party’s political strategy, the report revealed.
