BY NONYELUM EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Eze Igbo of Kaduna, His Royal Highness, Eze Silvanus Aleke, has conferred the honorary chieftaincy title of “Ezi Enyi Ndi Abia” (Good Friend of Abia) on the National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima.
The title was conferred during the Abia Cultural Day Celebration and fundraising for the construction of the Abia State Secretariat, organised by the Abia State Indigenes Welfare Association, Kaduna (ABSIWA).
Speaking at the colourful event, Eze Aleke described Shettima as a bridge-builder and peace advocate whose consistent support for unity and inter-ethnic harmony has earned him deep respect among the Igbo community in Kaduna and beyond.
“Ambassador Yerima Shettima has been a steadfast friend of the Igbo people. He is a peace advocate and a true patriot whose leadership reflects fairness and inclusiveness. This honour is our collective appreciation for his unwavering support and friendship,” the royal father said.
He added that Shettima’s leadership style and public engagement continue to promote tolerance, understanding and cooperation among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
In his response, Ambassador Shettima expressed appreciation to the Eze Igbo and the Abia community for the recognition, saying the gesture symbolises unity and mutual respect across Nigeria’s cultural lines.
“This honour means a lot to me because it represents the brotherhood that binds us as Nigerians. I am proud of the friendship and cooperation that exist between the North and the South East, and I remain committed to promoting peace, justice and development for all,” he said.
Shettima, who is the National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), reaffirmed his belief in one, united Nigeria where ethnic and religious differences are respected and harnessed for national progress.
The event, held in Kaduna, attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community representatives, and cultural groups from across the state. It featured colourful Igbo traditional dances, masquerade displays, and fundraising activities in support of the Abia State Secretariat project.
Guests commended the organisers for promoting unity through culture, describing the honour bestowed on Shettima as a reflection of the enduring bond between the northern and southeastern communities living in Kaduna.
