The Unyielding Champion of Peace and Democracy

Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima: A Profile of Courage and Conviction…

By Comrade AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Abuja-Nigeria

BTvNEWS: Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, President-General of Arewa Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, is a beacon of hope in the pursuit of peace, democracy, and human rights. His remarkable journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and his unshakeable resolve to promote justice and equality.

Early Life and Education:

Born on May 28, 1974, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, Shettima was raised in a Fulani family and educated in the Islamic faith. He attended Islamiya Primary School in Otukpo, Benue State, and Nico Commercial Secondary School in Cross River State. Shettima later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Lagos State University (LASU) and a Master’s degree in Conflict, Peace, and Strategic Studies from Kaduna State University.

Early Career and Activism:

Shettima’s career began as a self-employed entrepreneur, and he quickly became an active member of NADECO and a pioneer of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF). Between 2004 and 2006, he served as Youth Director of PRONACO, working alongside notable figures like Wole Soyinka, Anthony Enahoro, and Beko Ransome-Kuti. Shettima was also a pioneer of Save Nigeria, led by Tunde Bakare.

Political Career:

Shettima’s political journey includes roles such as National Vice Chairman for the North East of the Democratic Party for a People’s Federation (DPPF), Vice Presidential candidate of the Liberal Democratic Party of Nigeria (LDPN), and Presidential Candidate under the Youth Democratic Party (YDP). He has also contested for the House of Representatives in Kaduna North.

Awards and Recognition:

Shettima has received numerous awards and titles, including:

• Honorary Award from Ijaw Youth Development Association
• Centre for Resolution and NGO Promoting Peace and Unity
• Icon of Peace and Conflict
• Global Forum for Peace, Justice, and Human Rights Ambassador for Peace
• Per ASPERAAD Astra Certificate of Honour
• Legion of Eminent Personalities in Africa
• International Youth Peace Tourism Ambassador
• Ijaw Monitoring Group (IMG)
• Jarman Lagos Omeudo Ndigbo by Obi Eziokwundigbo of Mushin Land

Personal Life:

Shettima is married to two wives, Hajiya Halima Shettima and Hajiya Fatima Shettima, and is blessed with children.

Throughout his journey, Shettima has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and human rights. His courage and conviction serve as an inspiration to many, and his contributions to public service continue to make a lasting impact.