President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday sent warm birthday wishes to Vice President Kashim Shettima as he turned 59, describing him as a loyal ally and dependable partner in Nigeria’s renewal journey.

In a personal message, Tinubu hailed Shettima’s courage, tenacity, and sense of duty, noting that his choice of Shettima as running mate had been repeatedly justified by his service and commitment.

“Today presents another unique opportunity to celebrate you, my brother, co-traveller, and Vice President, as you mark another birthday,” Tinubu said.

“Your courage, sense of duty, tenacity, determination, and belief in Nigeria’s greatness have remained unshaken. I deeply appreciate your vibrancy, loyalty, partnership, and support as my deputy.”

Tinubu on Choosing Shettima

The President recalled his decision to select Shettima as his running mate, saying it was based on competence and leadership qualities Nigerians could rely on.

“Every day, as Vice President, you have justified that choice by strengthening our work, bringing fresh perspectives, and upholding our commitment to Nigerians,” Tinubu said.

Record of Service

Tinubu praised Shettima’s political journey from Governor of Borno State to Senator, commending his leadership during difficult times. He described him as proof that “leadership is service, not privilege.”

Renewed Hope Agenda

The President highlighted Shettima’s role in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing joint efforts on food security, investment reforms, and global partnerships.

“Our partnership will continue to yield results that Nigerians can see and feel. We must keep working towards prosperity and better living standards for our people,” Tinubu noted.

Beyond Politics

Tinubu said his relationship with Shettima transcends politics, calling it a bridge across regions and traditions. He urged other leaders to emulate the Vice President’s example of putting Nigeria first.

The President wished Shettima strength, wisdom, and many more impactful years in service to Nigeria.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to resolve outstanding welfare issues or face a nationwide strike.

The decision followed the association’s Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on Sunday. A communiqué was jointly signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, and Publicity Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi.

Key Demands

• Payment of 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) still owed to many doctors.
• Settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25%/35% CONMESS salary review.
• Clearance of other longstanding salary arrears.
• Payment of 2024 Accoutrement Allowance.
• Recognition and restoration of postgraduate membership certificates issued by the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons and the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.

State-Level Concerns

NARD also condemned the Kaduna State Government for failing to honour agreements with doctors at ARD Kaduna and Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital.
It criticised the Oyo State Government for ignoring the plight of doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where an indefinite strike has been ongoing.

Government Praised in Part

The doctors, however, commended state governors who have fully paid the 2025 MRTF, saying such compliance shows commitment to workers’ welfare.

Ultimatum Ends Sept 10

“The E-NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days to all relevant government agencies to meet these demands. Failure to do so within this period (expiring on Wednesday, 10th September 2025) will leave the NEC with no other option than to embark on a nationwide strike action,” the communiqué warned.

The Lagos State Government says it will commence the second phase of repair works on the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge (inbound Island) on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that alternative routes have been mapped out to ease movement for motorists during the period.

Alternative Routes

Oshodi-bound motorists from Lagos–Ibadan Expressway/Toll Gate → use Ojota Slip Road → connect Ikorodu Road (inward Anthony, by Taxi Park).

Victoria Island-bound motorists → Ojota Slip Road → Ikorodu Road (inward Anthony, by Town Planning Way) → Gbagada → Third Mainland Bridge → Lagos Island.

Motorists from Ikeja & environs → proceed via Maryland → Ikorodu Road/Funsho Williams Avenue → Eko Bridge → Outer Marina.

Government Appeal

Osiyemi said the second phase of repairs follows a review of the initial traffic management plan used during the first phase of the project.

“The partial closure of the bridge is a necessary part of the maintenance programme. Motorists are therefore urged to be patient and bear with the temporary inconvenience in the interest of improved road infrastructure,” he stated.

He also urged drivers to maintain lane discipline, cooperate with Traffic Management Officers, and plan their trips in advance to minimise congestion.

The bridge maintenance is part of a wider effort by the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to sustain critical road infrastructure and improve traffic flow in the state.