Scholars, activists, and leaders celebrated Kole Shettima at 65, recognising his pivotal role in democracy, governance, and philanthropy in Africa

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]rominent academics, politicians, civil society leaders, and journalists gathered in Abuja on Wednesday to honour Kole Shettima, the African Director of the MacArthur Foundation, as he marked his 65th birthday.

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The event, themed “Role of Philanthropy in Strengthening Democracy in Africa,” served as both a tribute and a reflection on Shettima’s remarkable contributions to democratic governance and social justice across the continent.

Celebrating a Legacy of Impact

Chairman of the Organising Committee, YZ Yau, described Shettima as a selfless patriot whose leadership at the MacArthur Foundation has supported countless democratic initiatives in Nigeria and beyond.

Under his direction, the foundation has provided critical funding to civil society organisations, government institutions, and private sector actors working to make democracy more meaningful for ordinary citizens.

“More than any other foundation, the MacArthur Foundation, under Kole’s leadership, has backed initiatives that strengthen democracy, social justice, and transparency,” Yau remarked.

Philanthropy’s Role in Strengthening Democracy

Keynote speaker Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Governance, highlighted the role of philanthropic organisations in restoring democracy in Africa.

He noted that the MacArthur Foundation has significantly contributed to judicial reforms, voter education, leadership development, and anti-corruption efforts across West Africa.

Akwetey also pointed out how philanthropy has played a key role in peacebuilding and transitional justice in post-election conflicts and military takeovers in countries like Mali, The Gambia, and Côte d’Ivoire.

He credited Shettima with leading over $234 million in MacArthur Foundation investments in Africa, with much of the funding directed towards Nigerian institutions.

Calls for Stronger Democratic Institutions

At the event, civil society leaders warned that Nigeria’s democracy faces serious threats. They urged stakeholders to rethink governance strategies to ensure democracy delivers on its promises of freedom, opportunity, and improved living standards.

YZ Yau emphasised that widespread poverty, insecurity, and government failures have left many questioning the value of democracy.

Deputy UN Secretary-General Amina Mohammed echoed this sentiment, praising Shettima’s role in supporting institutions that promote dialogue, transparency, and resilience against shared threats such as insecurity and inequality.

A Life Dedicated to Social Change

Born in 1960 in Machina, Yobe State, Shettima overcame a challenging childhood in a community lacking basic infrastructure.

He pursued academic excellence, earning a PhD in Political Science from the University of Toronto after studying at the University of Maiduguri and Ahmadu Bello University.

Before joining the MacArthur Foundation, Shettima taught at various institutions and became a key figure in African civil society.

He now serves as the Co-Director of the On Nigeria Big Bet initiative, which focuses on tackling corruption and promoting accountability.

In addition to his work in philanthropy, Shettima has significantly influenced Nigerian journalism. Through MacArthur grants, he has helped media organisations attract top talent and expand their investigative journalism efforts.

As dignitaries reflected on his legacy, keynote speaker Emmanuel Akwetey summed up the impact of Shettima’s career:

“His legacy is one of hope, resilience, and enduring impact.”