By Gbenga Sodeinde
Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has described the turbanning of renowned civil society leader, Dr Kole Shettima, as a fitting recognition of a lifetime of service to humanity, as he attended the traditional ceremony in Machina, Yobe State.
Dr Shettima was on Saturday turbaned as the Zannah Yuroma of the Machina Emirates, a revered title that designates him as the King’s Senior Adviser, by the Emir of Machina. The ceremony, held in Machina town, attracted dignitaries from across the country.
Speaking at the event, Fayemi said the honour conferred on Shettima was a “salutary reminder that selfless service, integrity and commitment to community development never go unnoticed.”
He noted that Dr Shettima has remained a major pillar of civil society and philanthropy in Nigeria and across the African continent through his role as Africa Director of the MacArthur Foundation, where he has championed democratic governance, social justice and human development.
“Today’s recognition from the home front reflects Dr Shettima’s enduring contributions to his community, Yobe State and the African continent at large,” Fayemi said.
Dr Shettima was turbaned alongside two other notable sons of the emirate — Engineer Mohammed Kati, who received the title of Marafan Machina, and Dr Abubakar Kagu, who was turbaned as Mutawallen Machina.
The former Ekiti governor also expressed appreciation to Yobe State Governor, His Excellency Mai Mala Buni, for what he described as exceptional hospitality during the visit.
He further commended the Emir of Machina and the royal household for the warm reception and the successful organisation of the colourful ceremony, which showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Machina Emirate.