maryam Shetty faced a humbling experience on Friday, August 4, 2023, when she discovered that her ministerial nomination had been withdrawn by the President upon arriving at the National Assembly for screening.
Clad in a black flowing gown adorned with a red-colored headgear and accompanied by associates, the former nominee approached the assembly complex with anticipation of her ministerial screening. However, her hopes were crushed when news broke that she had been replaced by Mariya Mahmoud, her former classmate.
Nonetheless, Shetty responded to the incident, stating that the experience would not deter her belief in the country. She expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for honoring her with the nomination.
In a statement issued on Saturday, August 5, 2023, she conveyed, “I have found myself at the center of a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political landscape. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a move that brought me immense honor, chose me as a ministerial nominee. Coming from the traditional, conservative regions of northern Nigeria, this represented a significant stride towards a more inclusive national representation.”
“The sheer joy and pride I felt at my nomination were beyond words. It was a validation of my capabilities, a nod to my vision, and a sign that our great nation was ready to embrace a future where young women like me, even from the most traditional parts of Nigeria, can hold positions of influence and power.”
“Yet, life, with its characteristic unpredictability, led to the withdrawal of my nomination. To some, this could seem like a setback, but my faith as a devout Muslim guided my understanding. I saw it as the divine will of Allah, who I believe grants power as He wishes, when He wishes. His plans are always superior to ours.”
“Even with this unexpected twist, my gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for considering me for such an esteemed position remains undiminished. The journey doesn’t end here; I believe this is a mere stepping stone, the best is yet to come. My resolve to serve my beloved country, Nigeria, in any capacity I can, is stronger than ever.”
“I would like to assure my incredible supporters that this is not an end, it is the dawn of a new era. I urge all of us to continue praying for our nation and to stand behind our president as he strives to better Nigeria. Together, let’s press ahead united under our #WEBELIEVE campaign.”
“It would be unfair of me here if I fail to acknowledge and appreciate the overwhelming support from international organizations and the community; many have reached out, and I am completely dazed by it all.”
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“My nomination may have been withdrawn, but my hope is unwavering. As I have often stated, ‘Hope is not lost; maybe I will come back again.’ This phase of my life has instilled in me a deeper sense of resilience, faith, and the value of service beyond titles and positions. It has reaffirmed my belief in the potential for change and in the inherent greatness of Nigeria. The dream is still alive, and my commitment to our nation remains steadfast.”
