Damaturu Emirate Confers Professor Mahmoud Maina with Title of 'Shettima Ilumuye'

By Yusuf A Yusuf,Damaturu

In a grand ceremony attracting significant public attention, the Damaturu Emirate has Thursday honored one of the world's prominent scholars in science and research, Professor Mahmoud Bukar Maina, with the traditional title of 'Shettima Ilumuye'.

The event took place at the Damaturu Emirate Palace, where hundreds of people, relatives, friends, and dignitaries from within and outside the state gathered to witness the conferment.

Professor Maina, who serves as an adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Science, and research matters, is renowned in the field of neuroscience, particularly through his research work. 

His Royal Highness, the Emir of Damaturu and Amirul Mumineen, Alhaji (Dr.) Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, explained that the conferment of this title recognizes the Professor's tireless efforts in advancing community life through education and technology.

 "We deemed it fitting to honor Professor Maina with this title due to his dedication and significant contributions towards promoting education and research technology in Yobe State and Nigeria as a whole," stated His Royal Highness.

The meaning of the title "SHETTIMA ILUMUYE" in the Kanuri language is the Custodian of Education and Enlightenment.It is among the highest and most prestigious honors bestowed by the Emirate upon individuals who have devoted their lives to the service of education and community development.

Dr. Maina, a global ambassador for progress, is a Wellcome Trust Career Development Fellow and one of Africa's leading scientists. His research on Alzheimer's disease and tauopathies is at the forefront of global neuroscience.

As the founder of the research center named BioRTC at Yobe University since 2022,he has trained over 300 emerging young Africans, strengthened local expertise in neuroscience, bioimaging science and technology, and spearheaded programs to equip institutions with expensive scientific tools to support collaborative research.

Currently, he serves as the Special Adviser on Science, Research, and Innovation to the Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, further demonstrating his commitment to integrating science and innovation into the policies of the Yobe State Government.

This honor from the Damaturu Emirate is a tribute to a life dedicated to education and service.