Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday assured Nigerians that national security remains a foremost priority for the government, responding to concerns raised by TVC anchor and author Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, popularly known as BKO.
Shettima made the remarks while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the presentation of BKO’s book, My Life and Journalists Hangout, in Abuja.
“The essence of government is to provide security to the lives and property of the citizen. The president is very much concerned, and the president is leaving no stone unturned to see that the issue of security of lives and property is frontally addressed,” Shettima said.
He praised the media’s role in democracy and described BKO’s work as a model of integrity and courage. “It is a celebration of documenting experience. BKO is a living template of democratic courage. A democracy depends on a strong media culture. The media is not a theatre of noise. It is a republic of conscience,” the VP added.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, who chaired the event, commended BKO for his commitment to truthful reporting, saying, “It is indeed a moment of reflection, thanksgiving and deserving celebration. I also thank BKO for the effort to tell all sides of the story every time in a way that the truth is not compromised.”
Marking his 60th birthday, BKO reflected on the personal and professional challenges of his career. “Sometimes I am away for a whole month due to this job. My wife is one of the most patient women that I have seen,” he said. He also urged the government to provide effective solutions to allow Nigerians to live safely.
“I want to see a Nigeria that is secure without the fear of bandits. To government officials, if we must get help either from America or anywhere, get their help so that our people can move around and go to their farms. The insecurity is demarketing the government of today,” BKO added.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Governors of Kogi State, Ahmed Ododo; Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno; Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Borno State, Babagana Zulum, among others.
