By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Coalition of Northern Youth and Women Initiative for Good Governance (CONYWIGG) has honoured Dr Emmanuel Simon with the title of Garkuwan Matasan Arewa, meaning “Shield of Northern Youths,” in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding, youth empowerment and interfaith harmony.
The honour was conferred on Simon in Kaduna during a courtesy visit by the coalition’s leadership. The nomination and visit were facilitated by Dr Tafida Jibril Lawal, Special Assistant to the President of the Senate on Diaspora and NGO Matters.
CONYWIGG said Simon emerged as a recipient of the title because of what it described as his outstanding service in promoting interfaith dialogue, youth development, women’s empowerment and peaceful coexistence across Northern Nigeria.
The coalition also cited his advocacy for national unity and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as factors that informed the recognition.
Speaking during the presentation, representatives of the organisation explained that the title symbolises protection, responsible leadership and dedication to the welfare and future of young people.
They maintained that Simon had demonstrated these qualities through his community engagement and sustained efforts to promote peaceful coexistence.
Simon currently serves as National Patron, Religious Affairs, of *Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria*, a support group mobilising grassroots backing for the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration.
In his response, Simon expressed appreciation to CONYWIGG for the recognition and thanked Dr Tafida Jibril Lawal for recommending him for the honour.
He described the title as one he would “forever cherish and value,” pledging to use the recognition as a platform to advance peace, unity and inclusion among Northern youths.
“I accept this honour with humility and a renewed sense of responsibility,” he said.
“At a time like this, our country needs more voices preaching peaceful coexistence, interfaith harmony and youth inclusion. I will continue to be that voice.”
The coalition’s leadership said the recognition reflected its commitment to identifying and celebrating individuals whose contributions advance good governance, social cohesion, and the development of young people and women in Northern Nigeria.
The event attracted youth and women leaders from Kaduna and other parts of the North, some of whom described the honour as timely and a recognition of Simon’s contributions to the region.
