Leaders in Nigeria’s civil society community, representing media, academia, and non-governmental organisations, have described the MacArthur Foundation Director in Nigeria, Kole Shettima, as a blessing for stakeholders working towards a better society.
They said this at an event themed ‘The Impact Series with Kole Shettima.’ It was organised by the Akin Fadeyi Foundation and held virtually recently.
The speakers, including Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Simon Kolawole, Kadaria Ahmed, and others, praised Shettima for using the MacArthur Foundation to support individuals and NGOs in Nigeria, promoting transparency and credibility in governance.
The founder of the Akin Fadeyi Foundation, Akin Fadeyi, said, “The Impact Series with Kole Shettima’ was put together not only to celebrate the anti-corruption investor but to create a forum for members of the civil society community to engage, evaluate and give advice where necessary on good governance and fighting against corruption.”
He described Shettima as one change agent who lived and woke with a thought on how to better Nigeria.
“Today is special for me because we all gather on this platform to speak about one man who has done a lot to change our country’s narrative. Dr Shettima is one man who has created a way to hold Nigerian leaders accountable despite the challenges associated with such an endeavour.
“Shettima has made it possible for us to look power in the face and ask questions where necessary. To me, he is a real hero and we must all begin to learn one or two things from him to further impact our various societies,” Fayemi said.
Also, the media entrepreneur and publisher of TheCable Online, Simon Kolawole, noted, “Beyond Dr Shettima’s contribution to society’s growth, especially his commitment to training journalists in the area of investigative reporting and the provision of equipment and tools for the media. One more thing I have found very exciting about Dr Shettima is his simplicity.”
A priest, who also doubles as the Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, commended Shettima for his contribution to humanity.
The Publisher of Premium Times, Dapo Olorunyomi, added, “Shettima is one of the few people we should appreciate for the growth and development of investigative journalism and media in general in this modern age.”
Reacting to the torrent of tributes in his honour, Shettima commended the organisers and appreciated all for their generous and humbling contributions.
He also applauded the contributions of his team members for the impact he had made, adding that without their support, he couldn’t have done it alone.
“The kind of people you work with always make the difference. Pay attention to the people you work with. I personally always care a lot about people and the foundation has helped me actualise my dreams,” Shettima remarked.
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