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Shettima Yerima: The Strong and Influential Voice of Northern Nigeria
By Suleiman Abbah
Shettima Yerima, the President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), has been at the forefront of promoting and protecting the general interests of Northern Nigeria. With his strong and influential voice, Yerima has been able to make a mark in the region’s political landscape.
Yerima’s political career began when he was elected as the National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) in 2007. As the head of one of the most prominent youth organizations in Northern Nigeria, Yerima has been able to champion the cause of the region’s youth.
Under Yerima’s leadership, the AYCF has focused on promoting peace, unity, and development in Northern Nigeria. Yerima has been instrumental in organizing several conferences and workshops that bring together Northern Nigerian youths to discuss critical issues affecting the region. Yerima is also known for his advocacy for the protection of the rights of Northern Nigerian women and children. He has been a vocal critic of child marriage, which he views as a violation of the rights of girls. Through his platform at the AYCF, Yerima has been able to raise awareness about the dangers of this practice and advocate for its eradication.
In addition to his work with the AYCF, Yerima has also been active in the Northern Nigerian political scene. He has contested for political office on several occasions, including a bid for a seat in the Nigerian Senate in 2011. Although he was not successful in these attempts, Yerima has continued to use his influence to promote good governance and accountability in the region. Shettima Yerima’s efforts to promote the interests of Northern Nigeria have not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized by several organizations and has received numerous awards for his contributions. Yerima’s strong and influential voice continues to shape the Northern Nigerian political landscape and inspire many youths to take an active role in the development of their region.
Yerima’s impact on Northern Nigeria extends beyond his work with the AYCF and political aspirations. He has also been a strong advocate for education in the region, recognizing it as a critical tool for development. Yerima has been involved in several initiatives aimed at improving access to education for Northern Nigerian children, particularly girls. Furthermore, Yerima has been vocal about the need for increased economic opportunities in Northern Nigeria. He believes that creating jobs and promoting entrepreneurship is key to reducing poverty and improving the standard of living in the region. Yerima has worked closely with business leaders and government officials to promote policies that encourage investment and economic growth.
Shettima Yerima is a detribalized activist who has been instrumental in the creation of the Association of Nigerian Ethnic Nationalities. This organization aims to foster greater unity among the diverse ethnicities in Nigeria. Yerima’s work has been crucial in bringing people from different backgrounds together and promoting a shared sense of identity. He understands that Nigeria is a country with diverse culture and traditions, but the common goal of unity and progress can only be achieved through collaboration and mutual understanding.
Yerima has also been a strong advocate for human rights and social justice. He believes that everyone deserves equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of their background. He has actively fought against discrimination and marginalization of minorities and has been a vocal supporter of policies aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. Overall, Yerima’s commitment to unity and social justice has made him a respected figure in Nigeria and beyond. His work has inspired many to follow in his footsteps and has paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Yerima’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous accolades for his work in promoting unity and social justice. He has been recognized by various organizations, including the African Leadership Network and the Nigerian Youth Merit Award. In addition to his advocacy work, Yerima is also a successful philanthropist. He has used his wealth and influence to support various charitable causes, including education and healthcare initiatives. Despite facing criticism and opposition from some quarters, Yerima remains committed to his mission of promoting unity and social justice. He continues to work tirelessly towards this goal, inspiring others with his passion and dedication.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of ethnic tension and inequality, Yerima’s message of collaboration and mutual understanding remains more relevant than ever. His legacy serves as a reminder that true progress can only be achieved through collective action and a commitment to shared values. Yerima, a Hausa Muslim, was born on May 28th, 1974, in the city of Zaria in Kaduna State, Nigeria. He was born into a Hausa family and was raised in the Islamic faith. Yerima began his education career at the Islamiya Primary School in Otukpo, Benue State, where he received his early education in Arabic and Islamic studies. After completing his primary education, he attended the NICO Commercial Secondary School in Cross River State, where he obtained his secondary school leaving certificate.
His passion for education and leadership led him to further his education at the Lagos State University (LASU), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Piblic Administration. Yerima continued his postgraduate studies at the Kaduna State University (KASU), where he is working for a master’s degree Conflict Peace and Strategic Studies (MCPSS). Yerima’s journey has been one of great accomplishments and notable signatures in several organizations. In 2011, he was exempted from the National Youth Service NYSC and decided to remain self-employed, building his way up to becoming the Chairman of Shehalfat Properties and Logistics in Kaduna. With his wealth of experience, Yerima prides himself as an embodiment of striving for success through lots of hard work.
Furthermore, he has continuously demonstrated his passion for his community by being an active member of several groups/organizations including NADECO, the Campaign for Democracy and founding the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF). These organizations have not only provided him with avenues to contribute to societal growth, but have also enabled him to sharpen his leadership and communication skills. Between 2004 and 2006, Yerima joined a firebrand team of Progressives like Prof. Wole Soyinka, Anthony Enahoro and Beko Ransom Kuti in a movement known as PRONACO and was also a member of the Save Nigeria Group. His involvement in these organizations gave him the opportunity to work with other progressives that were passionate about the development of the nation. Yerima’s commitment to progress and advancement is evident in his track record of making remarkable impacts wherever he goes.
Yerima has received an impressive array of honorary awards throughout his career, ranging from accolades focused on peace and conflict resolution such as the Centre for Resolution and the ICON of Peace and Conflict awards, in recognitions of his contributions to democracy and human rights such as the Hero of Democracy award and the International Youth Peace Tourism Ambassador award from the Ijaw Monitoring Group. In addition to these, Yerima has also been recognized by organizations promoting development and unity in Africa, including the Ijaw Youth Develop Association, the Global Forum for Peace Justice and Human Rights, and the Institute of Strategic Managers in Ghana. Yerima’s commitment to positive change in Nigeria and beyond is undoubtedly commendable and worthy of celebration.
Yerima’s contribution to the development of Lagos State has been recognized by the Chairman Arewa Council of Chiefs through the conferment of the title Jarman Lagos, which translates to Legend of Lagos. Yerima’s journey into politics began when he was appointed as the 1st National Vice Chairman for the North East of the Democratic Party for a Peoples Federation (DPPF), which was led by Professor Wole Soyinka. He later became the Vice Presidential Candidate of the Liberal Democratic Party of Nigeria (LDPN) during the 2011 General elections and also contested for the House of Representatives Kaduna North Candidate in 2019. Yerima further became the Presidential Candidate under YDP in 2014.
The National Youth Vanguard of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected allegations made by Honourable Aminu Sani Jaji, who accused the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, of orchestrating claims of anti-party activities against him.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the group’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr Adeniyi Wale, described Jaji’s accusations as “baseless” and an attempt to distract from his own political manoeuvres.
“Jaji has long positioned himself as a loyal APC member and a unifying force within the party, but his actions suggest otherwise. His political moves appear more self-serving than focused on party unity,” Wale said.
The APC Vanguard emphasised that Nigerians deserve transparent and accountable leaders rather than those who, it said, manipulate public trust for personal gain. The group also questioned Jaji’s credibility, citing what it described as a pattern of inconsistency in his political engagements.
“The remarks made by Jaji not only lack substantiation but also raise concerns about his reliability and judgment,” the statement read. “Leadership is not merely about holding a position of power; it is about demonstrating qualities that inspire trust and confidence among the people.”
The group commended Minister Matawalle for his efforts in strengthening national security and promoting peace. It said his leadership had contributed significantly to fostering unity and improving community relations across the country.
“Minister Matawalle exemplifies the qualities of effective leadership. Under his stewardship, significant progress has been made in enhancing national security and community relations,” the statement said.
The APC Vanguard further criticised Jaji’s leadership approach, accusing him of lacking the foresight and responsibility required for credible governance.
“This pattern of inconsistency not only weakens the integrity of his decisions but also erodes the confidence of party members and stakeholders who seek dependable representation,” Wale added.
The group reaffirmed its support for Matawalle and urged APC members to remain focused on unity and national progress while rejecting divisive rhetoric that could undermine the party’s strength.
News
Two brothers Launch Sardaunan Ikulu Fans Foundation, Sponsor WAEC Registration For 50 vulnerable Students
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
In a significant effort to promote education, two brothers have launched the Sardaunan Ikulu Fans Foundation, sponsoring the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) registration for 50 vulnerable students in Kamaru Ikulu Ward, Zango-Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Speaking at the launch on Tuesday, Yusuf Ismail Ashafa, popularly known as Sardaunan Ikulu, urged the beneficiaries to remain dedicated to their studies and strive for academic excellence. He assured them that the foundation would continue to support outstanding students by facilitating their admission into higher institutions.
Ashafa also called on parents to play an active role in motivating their children to focus on education, emphasizing that their success would contribute to a brighter future for the community.
Meanwhile, Ashafa, who played a crucial role in the emergence of Engr. Bege Gaiya Joseph as the Executive Chairman of Zango-Kataf Local Government Area, expressed deep appreciation for Joseph and his brother, Reuben Richman Bissla, for sponsoring the students’ WAEC registration in his honor.
He pledged to build on these efforts, ensuring continued support for students’ education as a means of fostering societal development.
In his remarks, the co-sponsor, Engr. Joseph Bege Gaiya, popularly known as Lordbeckson, disclosed that the initiative was aimed at improving the education of the most vulnerable students for the betterment of society.
“I am one of the beneficiaries of the goodwill of Sardaunan Ikulu. If he had wanted to become the Council Chairman, he would have been, but he decided to push me forward, and today I am the Council Chairman through his mentorship,” he stated.
He urged the beneficiaries to consider themselves fortunate and to take full advantage of the opportunity by studying hard to achieve excellent results.
“With the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, we must ensure that our students pursue science courses. We cannot afford to have a Federal University in our region and yet have our children unable to gain admission to study science-related fields,” he added.
The initiative has been widely commended as a timely intervention, helping underprivileged students overcome financial barriers to education.
Amid the recall process initiated against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Arewa Youths Progressives Assembly has told both the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the police that Nigerians are keenly watching their actions.
This came amid viral video of some politicians in the Kogi State mass-signing signatures purported to be that of the Senator’s constituents.
It was gathered that the Senator has already petitioned the police over the development.
However, addressing journalists on Tuesday, the National President of Arewa Youths Progressives Assembly, Shuaibu Usman, accused the INEC of always compromising the electoral process in Kogi State.
Usman, who recalled how results of the last governorship election in the state emerged even before the exercise commenced, urged the commission to redeem itself.
He said, “Kogi parades as a worst example when it comes to INEC conduct of election in Nigeria. We have not forgotten how many credible organisations, including Yiaga Africa, raised the alarm of the electoral heist that went on during the last guber election in that state.
“So, INEC has been notorious for providing a thriving ground for politicians in Kogi State to mess up the country’s electoral system.
“The same people are at it again, this time hiding under the guise of a recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. With their Kogi magic, they quickly manufactured over 250,000 signatures, whereas the entire voters during the main election stood at 120,000.
“One need not be a suitsayer to know that these are the same elements who are known to be chronic election riggers, with INEC as their enablers.
“However, we must caution the INEC that this should not be business as usual; this is beyond Kogi State, so Nigerians are watching.
“We were taken aback when the INEC after announcing that the petition did not meet its requirements, returned a day after to tell Nigerians that the same petitioners have met the requirements- what a quick fix!
“The INEC must not kowtow to the whims and caprices of desperate political elements in Kogi State, as this will be resisted by Nigerians.”
Similarly, the apex Igbo group also urged the police to ensure that all those in forging the signatures of Senator Natasha’s constituents were brought to book.
According to the group, the viral videos showed known faces in Kogi State, wondering why the police were yet to effect any arrest.
“By now, we had expected that some of the perpetrators should be cooling their heels in custody or having their days in court, but it is yet to happen.
“There should be no room for compromise, the culprits, no matter how highly placed, should be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
“We urge that the police should engage forensic experts to analyze those signatures before the INEC takes any further step in the said petition,” Usman further stated.