By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Eze Igbo of Kaduna, His Royal Highness Eze Silvanus Aleke, has conferred a traditional title on renowned activist and northern youth leader Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, in recognition of his contributions to peace, unity, and national integration.
The event, held during the Abia Cultural Day Celebration and fundraising for the construction of the Abia State Secretariat, took place on Sunday at the Open Prison, Barnawa, Kaduna. It was organized by the Abia State Indigenes Welfare Association (ABSIWA).
Eze Aleke described Ambassador Shettima as a “true friend of the Igbo people,” noting that the title “Ezi Enyi Ndi Abia”—which translates to Good Friend of Abia—was a tribute to his unwavering support for peacebuilding and inter-ethnic cooperation across Nigeria.
In his response, Ambassador Shettima, who is also a senatorial aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Kaduna Central, expressed deep appreciation for the honour. He said the gesture symbolizes the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the North and the South-East.
“I am humbled by this recognition. It strengthens my belief that Nigeria’s unity can only thrive through mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among our diverse people,” Shettima said.
Other distinguished personalities were also honoured during the event, including Chief Chimezie Enyiocha, who was named a Trustee of ABSIWA Kaduna, alongside several other notable Abia indigenes.
The colourful cultural celebration featured traditional dances, music, and artistic displays that highlighted the rich heritage of the Abia people and their commitment to promoting unity in diversity across Kaduna State.
