The Igbo community in Kaduna has conferred the honorary chieftaincy title of “Ezi Enyi Ndi Abia” (Good Friend of Abia) on the President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Yerima Usman Shettima, in recognition of his contributions to peace, unity, and inter-ethnic harmony across Nigeria.
The title was bestowed by His Royal Highness, Eze (Dr.) Silvanus Aleke, Eze Igbo of Kaduna, during the Abia Cultural Day Celebration and Fundraising Project for the construction of the Abia State Secretariat, organised by the Abia State Indigenes Welfare Association (ABSIWA) in Kaduna.
Eze Aleke described Shettima as “a visionary leader and a bridge-builder whose leadership reflects fairness, tolerance, and inclusiveness.”
“Ambassador Yerima Shettima has been a steadfast friend of the Igbo people. He is a peace advocate and a true patriot whose commitment to national unity and inter-ethnic understanding continues to inspire mutual respect among Nigerians,” the monarch said.
Eze Aleke explained that the honour was the community’s collective appreciation for Shettima’s unwavering support and friendship with the Igbo people, noting that his exemplary leadership continues to promote peaceful coexistence between the North and the South East.
In his response, Shettima, who also serves as Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) and a 2027 Senatorial hopeful for Kaduna Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC) expressed gratitude to the Igbo community for the recognition.
“This honour means a lot to me because it represents the unity and brotherhood that define us as Nigerians. I am proud of the friendship and cooperation between the North and the South East, and I remain committed to promoting peace, justice, and development for all,” Shettima stated.
The colourful event attracted community leaders, politicians, and cultural associations from across Kaduna. Guests were treated to vibrant displays of Igbo traditional dances, music, and cultural exhibitions all celebrating unity in diversity and reaffirming the strong bond between northern and southeastern communities in the state.
