Kashim Shettima, born on September 2, 1966, in Maiduguri, Borno State, is the current Vice President of Nigeria. A seasoned politician and former banker, Shettima has held significant roles, including Senator for Borno Central and two-term Governor of Borno State. Recognized for his service across banking, governance, and national leadership, Kashim Shettima net worth and career have drawn attention both nationally and internationally.
Early Life and Family Origins
Shettima hails from Nimeri Korongoso in the Shehuri North ward of Maiduguri. He belongs to the Kanuri ethnic group and was raised in a Muslim family.
His father, Shettima Mustafa Kuttayibe, was a respected community figure. He grew up in Borno State, where he completed his foundational education before venturing into higher academic and professional pursuits.
Educational Background
Shettima began primary school at Lamisula Primary School in Maiduguri (1972–1978), continued to Government Community Secondary School in Biu (1978–1980), and completed his secondary education at Government Science Secondary School in Potiskum in 1983.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Maiduguri in 1989 and later obtained a Master’s degree in the same discipline from the University of Ibadan in 1991.
As part of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), he served at the Nigerian Agricultural Cooperative Bank in Calabar from 1989 to 1990.
Career Before Politics
Before his involvement in politics, Shettima worked in academia and finance. From 1991 to 1993, he taught Agricultural Economics at the University of Maiduguri.
In 1993, he transitioned to the banking sector, starting with Commercial Bank of Africa. He later joined African International Bank, where he rose to a managerial role by 2001. That same year, he moved to Zenith Bank as the head of its Maiduguri branch. Over the years, he progressed to become the Zonal Head for the North-East region and later served as General Manager before resigning in 2007 to join the Borno State government as Commissioner for Finance.
Political Journey and Offices Held
Commissioner Roles in Borno
Shettima’s political career began under the administration of Governor Ali Modu Sheriff in 2007. He served in five different ministries, including Finance, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Education, Agriculture, and Health.
Governorship of Borno State
In January 2011, following the assassination of Modu Fannami Gubio, the then ANPP gubernatorial candidate, Shettima was selected to replace him. He contested and won the April 2011 elections with over 531,000 votes. He was re-elected in 2015 and served as governor until 2019.
His administration faced intense security challenges due to the Boko Haram insurgency, but remained committed to rebuilding efforts and infrastructure development in the region.
Senatorial Role
After leaving office in 2019, Shettima won the election for the Borno Central Senatorial District. He served in the Nigerian Senate until 2023. Though he had secured the APC ticket for another term, he stepped down to become Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2023 presidential race.
Vice Presidency
In the 2023 general election, Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerged victorious, and Kashim Shettima was inaugurated as Nigeria’s Vice President on May 29, 2023. His duties include coordinating national economic planning and assisting the President in executive decisions.
Kashim Shettima Net Worth and Assets
The estimated Kashim Shettima net worth stands at around $12 million as of 2025. When converted, this amounts to roughly ₦7.2 billion. His income sources span decades of work in the financial sector, state governance, legislative functions, and national executive leadership.
Property and Vehicles
Shettima owns residential properties in both Maiduguri and Abuja. His homes are noted for their comfort and secure locations. He also maintains a collection of luxury vehicles suitable for both public appearances and official duties.
Family and Personal Life
Kashim Shettima is married to Hajia Nana Shettima, the former First Lady of Borno State. The couple tied the knot on July 4, 1988, and have three children — a son named Armir Shettima and two daughters, Fatima and Amira. Fatima got married in 2022 to Sadiq Ibrahim Bunu, the son of Arc. Ibrahim Bunu. One of his daughters graduated with a first-class degree, and the other completed her studies in 2019.
Nana Shettima is actively involved in humanitarian efforts through the SWOT Foundation and the Model Orphanage Integrated School. Despite the opportunity allowed by his faith to marry multiple wives, Kashim Shettima has remained monogamous.
Religion and Ethnicity
Shettima practices Islam and has remained a consistent figure within Nigeria’s northern Muslim leadership. He often addresses religious and cultural issues, including his recent response to rumors of attempts to dethrone the Sultan of Sokoto.
Allegations and Public Scrutiny
Over the years, Kashim Shettima net worth and political activities have faced scrutiny. Allegations were raised by political opponents accusing him of involvement in the Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction during his time as governor.
However, Shettima has firmly denied all accusations, stating that his actions during the crisis were based on available intelligence and aimed at protecting the people of Borno.
International Engagements
As Vice President, Shettima has represented Nigeria on the global stage. Notably, he addressed the United Nations General Assembly in September 2024, reaffirming Nigeria’s stance on international peace and conflict resolution, including support for a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine matter.
Awards and Recognition
During his tenure as governor, Shettima received various awards recognizing his resilience and leadership in difficult circumstances. Though specifics on these accolades vary, they reflect his commitment to public service and recovery initiatives in conflict-affected areas.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
