A moment of politeness has stirred a wave of discussion across Nigerian social media after a video captured Vice President Kashim Shettima courteously opening the door of his car to his visiting Brazilian counterpart, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin.
The footage, shared via official channels and widely circulated online, shows Shettima escorting Alckmin to his vehicle after a bilateral meeting held in Nigeria last week.
As Alckmin steps up, Shettima quietly opens the rear car door and waits until his counterpart gets in before closing it and moving away.
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The gesture has prompted mixed reactions among Nigerians. Supporters praised the act as a sign of humility and diplomatic courtesy. “That’s the kind of respect and decorum our leaders should display,” one user commented.
Another added, “A simple act that speaks volumes—VP Shettima shows grace and dignity.”
On the other hand, some critics argue such actions blur the lines of protocol. They contend that a vice president ought not to assume the role of a personal assistant to another vice president.
“He’s the vice president of Nigeria, not a car valet,” one tweet read. Others warned that such displays could set expectations of subservience and undermine national stature.
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The viral clip comes at a time when Nigeria is deepening strategic relations with Brazil, particularly in trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange.
Both vice presidents attended a high‑profile meeting during the three‑day Nigeria‑Brazil Business Forum, where multiple Memoranda of Understanding were signed to expand bilateral cooperation.
As Nigerians weigh Shettima’s decision, questions linger over the symbolism of political hierarchy and the nuanced dance of respect between global leaders—a gesture small in scale, perhaps, but massive in its interpretive potential.
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