By Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi
Today, February 12, 2025, marks the 65th birthday of Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima. For many, this occasion transcends the celebration of a friend or relative; it honors a truly remarkable individual whose humanity is deeply felt.
Dr. Shettima has consistently seized every opportunity to positively influence countless lives. He embodies the role of a father to the fatherless, a husband to widows, and a guiding figure for the unemployed and marginalized.
Born on February 12, 1960, to the late Mallam Karagama and Ya Amsatu in Machina, Yobe State, Dr. Shettima overcame significant challenges to pursue his education, dedicating his life to the good of Nigerian and African society.
His journey reflects the narrative of a child supported by his community, who has matured into a formidable presence, akin to a towering iroko tree, offering refuge to many.
His contributions as an academic, educator, community organizer, advocate, mentor, and Grantmaker have been extensive and impactful. Over the last forty years, Dr. Shettima has devoted himself to cultivating social champions and leaders across various fields.
His work has been extensive and impactful, touching various sectors including health, education, legal reform, international justice, human rights, electoral reform, civic technology, women’s rights, social inclusion, indigenous rights, higher education, and girls’ education.
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Each of these areas reflects his deep commitment to social justice and equity, as he tirelessly champions the causes of the underrepresented and marginalized.
Dr. Shettima’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the universities he has engaged with; it resonates throughout the wider academic community and beyond.
His initiatives have not only advanced knowledge and research but have also fostered a spirit of collaboration and innovation. By nurturing social champions and leaders across diverse fields, he has played a vital role in the development and progress of Nigeria and the African continent.
His outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment continue to motivate and empower individuals to effect positive change within their communities and beyond.
Dr. Kole Shettima, through the On Nigeria Program of the MacArthur Foundation, has played a pivotal role in spearheading Nigerian-led initiatives aimed at enhancing accountability and combating corruption within the country.
Over a remarkable decade, spanning from 2014 to January 2024, Dr. Shettima’s visionary leadership has facilitated the disbursement of more than $150 million across seven distinct modules, each designed to address various facets of corruption and promote transparency.
These modules have provided a structured framework for the allocation of 317 grants, benefiting a diverse array of 205 grantees and subgrantee partners. The recipients of these grants represent a broad spectrum of stakeholders actively engaged in the anti-corruption movement in Nigeria.
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This includes government anti-corruption agencies, which play a crucial role in enforcing laws and regulations; civil society organizations, which advocate for transparency and accountability; independent media, which serves as a watchdog and informs the public; the criminal justice system, which is essential for prosecuting corrupt practices; and faith-based groups, which often mobilize community support and ethical standards.
By fostering strategic alliances with these various organizations, the On Nigeria Project has significantly enhanced its effectiveness in addressing corruption. This collaborative approach has allowed for the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices, thereby establishing a comprehensive strategy for tackling corruption in Nigeria.
The project recognizes that effectively combating corruption requires more than just legal and institutional reforms; it necessitates the active involvement of civil society, media, and faith-based organizations, all of which play critical roles in promoting accountability and transparency.
Dr. Shettima’s initiative has not only provided financial support but has also empowered these organizations to implement innovative solutions and engage in advocacy efforts that resonate with the Nigerian populace.
By integrating the efforts of various stakeholders, the On Nigeria Project has created a robust framework for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by corruption, ultimately contributing to a more accountable and transparent governance system in Nigeria.
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As the project continues to evolve, it remains committed to fostering a culture of integrity and ethical leadership, ensuring that the fight against corruption is sustained and impactful for years to come.
During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when the most vulnerable populations faced heightened deprivation and uncertainty, Dr. Shettima emerged as a pivotal figure in addressing these pressing issues.
Recognizing the urgent need for support and resources, he successfully secured a substantial $5 million equity grant from the MacArthur Foundation.
This funding was instrumental in facilitating access to essential information regarding vaccinations, which was critical in a time when misinformation and fear were rampant.
Moreover, the grant empowered youth within the community to take initiative and devise innovative solutions that would directly benefit their neighborhoods, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility among the younger generation.
In addition to addressing immediate health concerns, this grant significantly bolstered initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by the original inhabitants (OIs) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These communities, often marginalized and overlooked, had specific needs that required attention and advocacy.
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With the support of Dr. Shettima and the resources provided by the MacArthur Foundation, the OIs were able to organize and advocate for their political, economic, and socio-cultural rights more effectively. This advocacy led to significant achievements that marked a turning point in the recognition of their rights and needs.
Over the course of two years, the impact of these efforts became increasingly evident. One of the most historic milestones was the appointment of Nigeria’s first OI Minister under a civilian government since the return to civil rule in 1999.
This landmark event not only represented a breakthrough for the OIs but also served as a catalyst for further political engagement and representation.
Following this appointment, there was a notable increase in the political appointments of OIs, which helped to ensure that their voices were heard in decision-making processes that affected their lives.
Additionally, the recognition of the OIs’ rights led to tangible outcomes, such as compensation for land loss, which had long been a contentious issue for these communities.
The heightened awareness and respect for the needs of the OIs within the FCT fostered a more inclusive dialogue about their place in society and the importance of addressing historical injustices.
As a result, the initiatives supported by Dr. Shettima not only provided immediate relief during the pandemic but also laid the groundwork for long-term change and empowerment for the original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory.
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In celebrating Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima’s 65th birthday, we acknowledge our shared duty to uphold his legacy. Dr. Shettima’s unwavering commitment to human rights serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for all of us. His life’s work has illuminated the path toward justice and equality, reminding us that these ideals are not merely aspirations but essential rights that must be fought for and protected.
As we commemorate this significant milestone in Dr. Shettima’s life, we must recognize that the struggle for justice is ongoing. The challenges we face today, be it systemic inequality, discrimination, or the erosion of fundamental freedoms, demand our collective attention and action.
Dr. Shettima has shown us that the fight for human rights and good governance is not the responsibility of a select few; rather, it is a shared duty that requires the involvement of every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Let us take this opportunity to renew our commitment to the values that Dr. Kole champions, values rooted in compassion, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the dignity of every human being.
His tireless advocacy has inspired countless individuals to stand up for what is right, and it is our responsibility to carry that torch forward. We must strive to create a world where justice prevails, where every voice is heard, and where equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality.
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As we celebrate Dr. Shettima’s legacy, let us also reflect on the ways we can contribute to the cause of human rights, democracy and accountability. Whether through education, activism, or simply by fostering a culture of respect and understanding in our communities, each of us has a role to play.
Together, we can build on the foundation that Dr. Shettima has laid and work towards a future where human rights are universally upheld and celebrated.
In conclusion, as we honor Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima on this momentous occasion, let us not only celebrate his achievements but also recommit ourselves to the vital work that lies ahead.
May his legacy inspire us to be relentless in our pursuit of justice and equality, and may we continue to advocate for the rights of all individuals, ensuring that the flame of hope and change burns brightly for generations to come.
Happy Birthday Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima!
Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi is the Executive Director of Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED)