Lt AM Yerima biography reveals the profile of the courageous Nigerian Navy officer who stood his ground against Minister Nyesom Wike. Discover his background, military career, and viral incident.

Who is Lt AM Yerima?

Lt AM Yerima biography has become one of the most searched topics in Nigeria following his viral confrontation with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike on November 11, 2025. The young Nigerian Navy officer gained widespread national attention and praise for his calm, disciplined, and professional conduct during a tense standoff over a disputed land in Gaduwa District, Abuja.

Lt Yerima, whose full name is Lieutenant AM Yerima, serves in the Nigerian Navy and has been described by those who know him as a fine gentleman, courageous officer, and consummate professional who upholds military values under pressure. His actions during the confrontation with one of Nigeria’s most powerful ministers sparked public admiration and renewed conversations about respect for the armed forces and the rule of law.

Hailing from Kaduna State in Northern Nigeria, Lt Yerima attended Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, where he studied in the Faculty of Social Sciences before eventually joining the Nigerian Defence Academy. His journey from a university student to a commissioned naval officer demonstrates dedication to service and commitment to national duty.

The incident that brought him into the national spotlight occurred when he and his team of soldiers were deployed to guard a plot of land allegedly belonging to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd.). When Minister Wike arrived with security personnel to access the land, Lt Yerima stood firm, stating he was acting on orders and could not allow unauthorized access to the property.

Quick Facts About Lieutenant AM Yerima Nigerian Naval Officer

Details	Information
Full Name	Lieutenant AM Yerima
Military Rank	Lieutenant
Service Branch	Nigerian Navy
State of Origin	Kaduna State, Nigeria
Nickname	MD (at ABU)
University	Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Year of Admission	2011
Faculty	Social Sciences
Initial Course	Mass Communication
Military Academy	Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
Service Status	Active Duty
Known For	Confrontation with Minister Wike (November 2025)
Naval Service	Nigerian Special Boat Service
International Training	Exercise Flintlock 2018
Ship Assignment	NNS Kada

Early Life and Background

Birth and Family Roots

Lt AM Yerima was born and raised in Kaduna, one of Nigeria’s major cities in the Northwestern region. Kaduna State has a rich military history and has produced numerous officers who have served with distinction in Nigeria’s armed forces. Growing up in Kaduna provided Yerima with early exposure to Nigeria’s diverse cultures and military traditions.

While specific details about his birth date and family background remain private, his upbringing in Kaduna shaped his character and prepared him for the discipline required in military service. The city’s strong educational institutions and military presence likely influenced his decision to pursue both higher education and a military career.

Childhood and Values

Those who knew him during his university days describe him as someone with strong character and integrity. His nickname “MD” at Ahmadu Bello University suggests he was well-liked and respected among his peers. Former classmates recall him as tall and lanky during his university days, with good social skills and a respectful demeanor.

The values instilled in him during his formative years in Kaduna would later manifest in his professional conduct as a military officer. His ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain discipline in challenging situations reflects the strong foundation laid during his early life.

Educational Background

University Education at ABU

Lt Yerima gained admission into Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 2011, one of Nigeria’s premier universities and the largest in West Africa. He was admitted into the Faculty of Social Sciences alongside his classmate Aliyu Jalal, who later shared memories of their time together.

According to Aliyu Jalal, Yerima initially started studying Mass Communication before eventually transferring to the Nigerian Defence Academy to pursue his military career. This transition demonstrates his adaptability and the clarity of purpose that would eventually lead him to military service.

Nigerian Defence Academy Training

After his time at ABU, Lt Yerima joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna, Nigeria’s premier institution for training military officers. The NDA is known for its rigorous academic and military training programs that produce officers for the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

At the NDA, Yerima underwent intensive military training combined with academic education, preparing him for the challenges of military leadership and service. The academy’s emphasis on discipline, honor, and integrity shaped his professional conduct and prepared him for commissioned officer duties.

Commission into the Nigerian Navy

Upon successful completion of his training at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Yerima was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy. His commissioning marked the beginning of his active military service and his journey as a naval officer dedicated to defending Nigeria’s territorial waters and national interests.

Military Career

Nigerian Navy Service

Lt AM Yerima serves as a commissioned officer in the Nigerian Navy, where he has distinguished himself through professional conduct and dedication to duty. His military career includes service aboard naval vessels and participation in various military operations and training exercises.

Special Boat Service

Lt Yerima serves with the Nigerian Special Boat Service, the Nigerian Navy’s elite special operations unit. This assignment indicates his advanced training and capabilities in specialized naval operations. The Special Boat Service is tasked with conducting special operations in maritime environments, including counterterrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.

Assignment to NNS Kada

Akin Olaoye, a Nigerian who claimed to have met Lt Yerima aboard the NNS Kada, described him as “a very fine gentleman” whose behavior reflected the dignity expected of the armed forces. Service aboard naval vessels like the NNS Kada involves demanding operational duties and requires high levels of professionalism and competence.

International Military Exercise

In 2018, Lt Yerima participated in Exercise Flintlock, an annual African-led integrated military and law enforcement exercise held in Agadez, Niger. During this exercise on April 11, 2018, he was photographed alongside 1st Sgt. Simon from the Spanish Naval Special Warfare Force during an operational planning exercise at the Joint Multinational Headquarters.

Exercise Flintlock has strengthened key partner nation forces throughout North and West Africa as well as western Special Operations Forces since 2005. His participation in this multinational exercise provided valuable experience in joint operations and international military cooperation.

Professional Conduct and Reputation

Throughout his military career, Lt Yerima has earned a reputation for professionalism, discipline, and integrity. Colleagues and acquaintances consistently describe him as calm, respectful, and committed to upholding military values. These qualities were prominently displayed during his November 2025 confrontation with Minister Wike.

Career Timeline & Major Milestones

Year	Milestone/Event	Significance
2011	Admitted to ABU, Faculty of Social Sciences	Beginning of university education
2011-2014	Studied at Ahmadu Bello University	Pursued Mass Communication initially
Mid-2010s	Joined Nigerian Defence Academy	Transitioned to military training
Late 2010s	Commissioned as Lieutenant	Became naval officer
2018	Participated in Exercise Flintlock, Niger	International military training
2018-2025	Active service in Nigerian Navy	Served with Special Boat Service
2020s	Assigned to NNS Kada	Naval vessel duty
November 11, 2025	Confrontation with Minister Wike	Gained national recognition

The Viral Wike Incident

Background of the Confrontation

On November 11, 2025, Lt AM Yerima found himself at the center of national attention when he led a group of soldiers deployed to guard Plot 1946 in Gaduwa District, Abuja. The land in question was allegedly owned by Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (rtd.), a former Chief of Naval Staff.

Minister Nyesom Wike, leading officials from the FCT Administration Department of Development Control along with security operatives from the police and DSS, arrived at the site to enforce what he claimed was illegal occupation of the land. According to Wike, the property had no valid allocation documents from the FCT Administration and no building approval.

The Standoff

When Minister Wike’s convoy approached the fenced site, Lt Yerima and his team of uniformed soldiers positioned at the entrance denied him access. This led to heated verbal exchanges between the minister and the young officer, all captured on video and widely circulated online.

During the confrontation, Lt Yerima maintained his composure despite verbal attacks from the minister. The exchange included several memorable moments:

Wike: “You are a very big fool!”

Lt Yerima: “I am not a fool sir. I am acting on orders.”

Lt Yerima: “You can’t call me a fool. I am a commissioned officer.”

Wike: “Will you keep quiet. Are you a big fool?”

Lt Yerima: “I am not a fool but an officer with integrity.”

Professional Response Under Pressure

Throughout the tense encounter, Lt Yerima repeatedly stated that he was following orders from a three-star General and could not allow unauthorized access to the property. He explained that the land belonged to a former Chief of Naval Staff with valid documents.

When Wike threatened consequences, Lt Yerima calmly responded: “No problem, sir. I am only acting on my order.” His refusal to be intimidated while maintaining respect for civilian authority demonstrated exceptional professionalism.

Public Reaction

The video of the confrontation went viral across Nigerian social media platforms, sparking widespread debate about civilian-military relations, respect for the armed forces, and land governance in Abuja. The overwhelming public response was supportive of Lt Yerima’s conduct.

Public Testimonies and Character References

Akin Olaoye’s Testimony

Akin Olaoye, who claimed to have met Lt Yerima aboard the NNS Kada, publicly praised the officer’s conduct: “I met Lt Yerima on the NNS Kada and he is a very fine gentleman. No commissioned officer who fights to defend this country & our freedom should be treated like an errand boy. Hon Minister Wike was given a masterclass in observing decorum & civility. Kudos to the young officer!”

Aliyu Jalal’s Memories

Aliyu Jalal, Yerima’s former classmate at ABU, shared personal memories: “We called him MD back in ABU. Born and raised in Kaduna. We got admitted into the Faculty of Social Sciences the same year — 2011. He used to be tall and lanky. Had a way with girls. He started Mass Communication before going to NDA. Regardless of whose interest he was safeguarding, he demonstrated the discipline, bravery, and righteous fearlessness expected of a true soldier. Respect.”

National Praise

Nigerians across social media platforms commended Lt Yerima for his calm and disciplined conduct. His actions were described as a model of professionalism and courage, with many calling him a true representation of what military officers should embody.

Personal Life

Private Background

Lt AM Yerima maintains a relatively private personal life, with limited information publicly available about his family, marital status, or children. This privacy is typical for active-duty military officers who prefer to keep personal matters separate from their professional duties.

Character and Personality

Those who knew him during his university days describe him as someone with good social skills and a respectful personality. His nickname “MD” suggests he was popular and well-regarded among his peers at ABU.

Physical Description

During his university days, Lt Yerima was described as tall and lanky. His physical appearance likely changed during his military training at the NDA, where rigorous physical conditioning is part of the curriculum.

Values and Principles

Lt Yerima’s conduct during the viral incident revealed his core values: discipline, respect for authority, commitment to duty, and unwavering integrity. His statement “I am not a fool but an officer with integrity” encapsulates his sense of professional pride and personal honor.

Professional Philosophy

Commitment to Orders

Throughout the Wike confrontation, Lt Yerima repeatedly emphasized that he was acting on orders from superior officers. His statement “I take orders from a three-star General” demonstrated his understanding of military command structure and chain of command.

Respect Under Pressure

Despite being verbally attacked and called degrading names, Lt Yerima maintained respectful language throughout the confrontation. He addressed the minister as “sir” even while firmly standing his ground, demonstrating that respect and firmness are not mutually exclusive.

Military Discipline

His calm demeanor under extreme pressure exemplified military discipline and training. Rather than reacting emotionally to provocations, he remained focused on his duty and maintained professional conduct throughout the incident.

Impact and Significance

National Conversation

The viral incident sparked important national conversations about several issues: respect for military personnel, civilian authority versus military duty, land governance in Abuja, and the rule of law. Lt Yerima became a symbol for these broader discussions.

Military Morale

His conduct provided a morale boost to military personnel across Nigeria who felt vindicated by the public support for Lt Yerima. Many serving and retired officers praised his professionalism and saw his actions as upholding the dignity of the armed forces.

Setting Standards

Lt Yerima’s handling of the situation set a new standard for how military officers should conduct themselves when facing pressure from powerful civilians. His example demonstrated that professionalism and respect for orders can coexist with courtesy toward civilian authorities.

Interesting Facts About Lt AM Yerima

1. University Nickname He was known as “MD” during his time at Ahmadu Bello University, though the meaning behind this nickname has not been publicly explained.

2. Course Change He initially started studying Mass Communication at ABU before transitioning to the Nigerian Defence Academy for military training.

3. International Experience His participation in Exercise Flintlock 2018 in Niger provided him with valuable international military training experience.

4. Viral Fame The video of his confrontation with Minister Wike became one of the most viral Nigerian videos in November 2025.

5. Special Forces His service with the Nigerian Special Boat Service indicates elite military training and specialized skills.

6. ABU Class of 2011 He was admitted to Ahmadu Bello University in the same year as several other notable individuals.

7. Calm Under Fire Despite intense verbal attacks, he never raised his voice or showed anger during the confrontation.

Net Worth and Financial Profile

Military Salary

As a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, Lt AM Yerima receives the standard salary and allowances for his rank. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, Nigerian naval officers receive competitive compensation including basic salary, housing allowance, and other military benefits.

Benefits and Allowances

In addition to base salary, naval officers receive various allowances including feeding allowance, medical benefits, and access to military facilities. Those serving in special operations units like the Special Boat Service may receive additional hazard pay.

Estimated Financial Standing

While specific net worth figures are not available for Lt Yerima, his financial standing would be consistent with a mid-level commissioned officer in the Nigerian military. Military officers typically build wealth gradually through savings, investments, and benefits accumulated over years of service.

Current Status and Future Outlook

Active Service

As of November 2025, Lt AM Yerima remains on active duty with the Nigerian Navy. His viral fame has not changed his military status, and he continues to serve with the same professionalism that brought him national attention.

Career Prospects

The public support and recognition he received could positively impact his military career, demonstrating his ability to handle high-pressure situations with grace and professionalism. Such qualities are valued in military leadership and could lead to future advancement opportunities.

National Recognition

His instant fame has made him a household name in Nigeria, with many citizens viewing him as a hero who stood up for military dignity while maintaining respect for civilian authority. This recognition transcends his military role and positions him as a national symbol of integrity.

Lessons from the Incident

Professional Conduct

Lt Yerima’s handling of the Wike confrontation provides valuable lessons in professional conduct: maintaining composure under pressure, respecting chain of command, standing firm on principles, and balancing respect with firmness.

Military-Civilian Relations

The incident highlighted the complex dynamics between military personnel and civilian authorities in Nigeria. It demonstrated that mutual respect is essential even when disagreements arise.

Rule of Law

The confrontation raised important questions about land governance, due process, and the proper channels for resolving disputes between military interests and civilian administration.

Conclusion

Lt AM Yerima biography represents an inspiring story of a young Nigerian naval officer who became a national figure through his demonstration of professional excellence under extreme pressure. From his early days as a university student in Kaduna to his commission as a naval officer and his eventual viral fame, his journey exemplifies the values of discipline, integrity, and commitment to duty.

His calm and respectful handling of the confrontation with Minister Wike on November 11, 2025, earned him widespread admiration and sparked important national conversations about respect for the armed forces, professional conduct, and the rule of law. His statement “I am not a fool but an officer with integrity” resonated with millions of Nigerians and became a rallying cry for professional dignity.

As he continues his service with the Nigerian Navy, Lt AM Yerima stands as an example of what military professionalism should look like: firm in duty, respectful in conduct, and unwavering in integrity. His actions have set a standard for military officers and demonstrated that courage comes not from aggression but from calm adherence to principles.

The story of Lt Yerima reminds Nigerians that true leadership and professionalism are not about position or power, but about character, discipline, and the courage to do what is right even under intense pressure. His legacy extends beyond the viral video to represent the best values of Nigeria’s armed forces.

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