Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday described marital unions as vital pillars of Nigeria’s social stability and long-term national development, saying strong families form the foundation of a resilient nation.
Speaking in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the wedding ceremony of Miss Deborah Ershima and Mr Samuel Aondoakur, the vice president said marriage goes beyond a personal milestone to serve as a social institution that nurtures values essential for national cohesion and progress.
Mr Aondoakur is the son of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.
According to Shettima, the strength of family units directly reflects the strength of the nation, noting that commitment, unity and shared values at the household level mirror Nigeria’s capacity to overcome challenges.
“Marriage is not merely about two individuals; it is about the deliberate integration of lives and values that sustain society,” the vice president said, adding that the institution of marriage is “deeply Nigerian and deeply human.”
He commended the families of the couple for raising children grounded in discipline, faith and strong character, stressing that stable homes are built through intentional value formation rather than chance.
Shettima noted that successful marriages are sustained not by perfection but by patience, humility and alignment, explaining that everyday choices such as forgiveness, listening and mutual support keep families together long after wedding ceremonies.
“A home is not built by vows alone, but by daily decisions rooted in kindness, humility and understanding,” he said.
