Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians, especially leaders, to exemplify true leadership by prioritising community service and legacy-building over personal gain.
A statement by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Spokesperson of the Vice-President, said Shettima spoke while inaugurating the Ibapon Central Mosque in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on Friday.
He also urged Nigerians to prioritise spiritual obligations and community service over personal interests in an era where people are becoming more individualistic and giving less premium to God.
The Vice-President expressed worry about the shifting societal values in contemporary Nigeria.
” Today, the world is unfortunately marked by a mindset that values self-interest over selflessness, and many see giving back or even engaging in spiritual obligations as burdens or distractions.
According to him, the Mosque, a multi-million naira project built by Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), is a “gift for generations” that stands in stark contrast to prevailing materialistic trends.
“Every second of our lives is a reminder of our impermanence, and the brevity of life underscores the urgency of filling our days with deeds that matter in the hereafter,” he added.
Shettima, who commended the project, described it as an example of Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity).
The Vice-President noted that such initiatives represent the kind of legacy-building that society desperately needs.
” This is a legacy, a bridge between this world and the next, grounded in kindness and devotion,” he stated.
Shettima questioned the lasting impact of material accumulation, saying “We must ask ourselves—what remains when this race ends?
” In the end, all that endures are the records of our selfless deeds, our adherence to our faith, and our acts of charity.”
He expressed hope that the new religious edifice will “be a source of spiritual strength and inspiration for this community and beyond.”
Earlier, Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, also eulogised Sen. Buhari, saying the Mosque project was not just a service to the Muslim Ummah but to humanity at large.
“My prayer is that God reward you with Al-Jannatul Firdaus. You are an epitome of good character and someone who is always at the forefront of service to this country and humanity at large,” he said.
On his part, the Deputy Governor of Oyo, Abdul-Raheem Lawal, said the immediate family of Sen. Buhari would be proud to have someone who makes them very proud all the time.
“On behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, we appreciate the Vice President for coming to our state,” he said.
He said the Mosque project is not just a physical building but a spiritual exercise in which the reward extends beyond one’s earthly life.
“It is also a means of spiritual purification and unity, fostering the unity of Nigeria because whenever we worship, we call for the unity and peace of Nigeria,” he added.
Responding, Sen. Buhari said it was indeed an honour and a dream come true for him to have completed the Mosque project.
He specifically thanked the Vice-President, the governors of Oyo and Kwara States, members of the National Assembly, and community members who contributed to the success of the worship centre.
