Shettiman Dukawuya at 30: Bridging Three Regions and Generations

Today, as Gidado Yushau Shuaib marks his thirtieth birthday on March 29, I take this moment to honor his exemplary discipline, the challenges he has surmounted, and the accolades he has brought to our family and community.

In a letter received during the sacred month of Ramadan, Sarkin Kofar Dukawuya, Alhaji Bello Maitama, commended Gidado's family for their significant contributions to the community. In recognition of their legacy, the community decided to bestow upon him the traditional title of Shettiman Dukawuya.

Three decades ago, a momentous announcement echoed from the historic settlement of Dukawuya in Kano: a new child had entered the world. Although it appeared to be a typical announcement, it was born from a community steeped in history.

Dukawuya has served as one of the historical gateways that once protected the ancient walls of Kano against invaders. Long before modern metropolises were bustling with activity, Dukawuya stood as a testament to history, culture, and resilience. Today, it continues to possess a unique intellectual landscape, surrounded by several institutions of learning, including Bayero University Kano (BUK) to the south, the Federal University of Education (formerly ATC/ABU) to the west, Kano Polytechnic to the east, and the Women Teachers College (WTC) and Government Secondary School to the north. Few places in Nigeria are as completely enveloped by educational facilities, making Dukawuya a commendable Center of Education within Kano.

In this cradle of knowledge, Gidado was named after an individual noted for their integrity during the Abacha regime. His educational journey commenced in two distinct environments; in the mornings at Stella Maris, a Christian school in Garki, Abuja, and in the afternoons with traditional Quranic instruction in Wuye. This duality—two philosophies and streams of knowledge—flowed into the same young consciousness, setting the foundation for his diverse worldview.

Following primary education, Gidado transitioned to Command Secondary School in Asokoro, where the military discipline instilled a strong sense of responsibility. Intent on providing him broader experiences, his parents later enrolled him in Alhaji Akilu Islamic School in Modibbo, a rural area of Kano, which imparted valuable life lessons amidst its simpler and more challenging environment. He eventually returned to Abuja to complete his secondary education at Nigeria-Ghana College, with each institution leaving a significant mark on him: faith, discipline, resilience, and curiosity.

His strong academic record earned him a place at Bayero University Kano (BUK) to study Sociology and Mass Communication. In this new academic setting, his performance progressively improved, to the surprise of many who had followed his earlier path.

However, his journey was interrupted by the escalating Boko Haram insurgency, which brought an atmosphere of fear throughout Northern Nigeria. Educational institutions, marketplaces, and government facilities became targets of attack. Concerned for Gidado's safety, his parents made the pivotal decision to transfer him to Baze University in Abuja.

Although his grandparents were born in the Ilorin Emirate and his lineage traces back to the Kanuri people of Borno—where the name Shettima signifies leadership and scholarship—both Gidado and his father were born in Kano. His family is the custodian of the oldest Quran in Ilorin, which was transported from Kanem Bornu by their ancestry. Hence, the title signifies connections across three regions, cultures, and a continuous lineage.

At Baze University, Gidado completed his studies in Mass Communication, graduating with a Second Class Upper degree. His pursuit of knowledge eventually led him abroad to the University of Westminster in London, where he attained a Master's degree in Media Campaigning and Social Change.

Education alone does not encapsulate a life. Gidado's career has been marked by significant roles as an intern and trainee within major media houses, including PREMIUM TIMES, Daily Trust, and BBC London. During his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year at Government House in Minna, he worked under a mentor who remains his supervisor, where he learned the nuances of crisis communication, strategic media engagement, and reputation management.

Gidado's passion for digital journalism began to emerge, culminating in the creation of Youth Digest—a platform designed to empower young Nigerians with engaging narratives and practical skills. Subsequently, he initiated the Campus Journalism Awards (CJA) and the Youth Digest Dialogue Initiative, which focus on empowering young communicators across Nigeria.

Seeking to deepen his journalistic impact, he established News Digest, which received more attention than anticipated. This path, however, led to him facing off with security forces. He was taken into custody in Abuja related to an investigation conducted by esteemed journalist Alfred Olufemi, with subsequent court proceedings resulting in an initial unfavorable ruling that was later overturned.

Previously, a case of mistaken identity led to his questioning by the then CSP Tunde Disu-led Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos. After thorough interrogation, he was exonerated by the officer, who now holds the position of Inspector-General of Police. For a young journalist, these experiences, rather than being intimidating, were profoundly educational.

Gidado's skills in communication opened various opportunities, including participation in the World PR Forum in Ghana and the UN Young Assembly in Washington, in addition to consulting for organizations and brands—solidifying his reputation in strategic communication. His roles included serving as Social Media Coordinator for Baze University, Chief Communication Adviser for CISLAC/Transparency International, and Special Assistant to the Director- General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace—an influential mentor he acknowledges with great respect.

As he turns thirty today, March 29, I look back not just at the time that has gone by but at the ongoing journey ahead. I honor Gidado Yushau Shuaib for his discipline, the hurdles he has faced, and the achievements he has brought to our family and the wider community.

Recognition has come his way, including the prestigious 30 Under 30 Young Communicator accolade. However, the most heartfelt recognition has been from his home community. The letter from Sarkin Kofar Dukawuya deeply acknowledged his family's contributions and the pride they have brought. Consequently, he was duly recognized with the traditional title of Shettiman Dukawuya, a title that encapsulates profound meaning.

Today, as he celebrates thirty years, I reflect on the journey thus far and the one that lies ahead. To Gidado Yushau Shuaib, I wish that your path remains enlightened by knowledge, humility, and service. May the forthcoming chapters of your life prove even more extraordinary than the initial thirty years.

Finally, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Dukawuya Community for this prestigious honor.