For many Nigerians, LT Yerima represents courage, patriotism, and integrity. In a country where public trust in leadership is frequently shaken, this young naval officer’s audacity in challenging powerful persons has prompted widespread praise.
Lt AM Yerima rose to attention following a viral clash with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike over a plot of land in Abuja. The incident not only elevated his name to national recognition but also demonstrated a rare level of bravery and discipline that distinguishes a genuine military officer.
LT Yerima Biography
LT AM Yerima was born on July 20, 1992, in Kaduna State, Nigeria, a location renowned for producing military officers and national leaders. Yerima grew up in a strict environment where he learnt the principles of duty, respect, and patriotism at a young age.
His family valued education, hard labour, and civic responsibilities. Friends and past students characterise him as clever, articulate, and extremely curious about leadership and governance. These early features influenced his desire to join the Nigerian Navy.
Kaduna, home of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), provided a unique milieu that fuelled Yerima’s military dreams. Surrounded by cadets, commanders, and military culture, he developed a strong admiration for people who devote their lives to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
In 2011, he was admitted to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, to study Mass Communication in the Faculty of Social Sciences.
Yerima excelled academically at ABU while also actively participating in student forums, leadership programs, and civic projects. He was praised for his intelligence, discipline, and eloquence, which foreshadowed the leadership that would eventually define his public image.
Despite a good academic career, Yerima took the critical decision to leave ABU and attend the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). His resolve to serve his country trumped civilian goals.
At NDA, he received intense military training, physical fitness, leadership drills, and tactical instruction. His stay at the academy turned him into a disciplined, dedicated, and daring officer, eventually receiving his commission in the Nigerian Navy.
This shift from academic to military life was a watershed moment in Yerima’s life, exhibiting dedication not only to personal development but also to national service.
Career
LT AM Yerima’s military career is based on discipline, professionalism, and courage. As a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, he has served in a variety of capacities, demonstrating his commitment to the military.
He has received advanced tactical training and has taken part in international military exercises such as Exercise Flintlock 2018, a global special operations training program aimed at strengthening African military forces’ ability to combat terrorism and piracy.
Lt Yerima also served in the Special Boat Service (SBS), an elite marine force similar to the US Navy SEALs. The SBS undertakes high-risk operations like counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and marine security missions.
Colleagues characterise him as cool, tactical, and focused. His leadership style is distinguished by leading by example, being calm under pressure, and always prioritising the well-being of his team.
Yerima has also been deployed on NNS Kada and other naval assets that are essential to Nigeria’s maritime defence strategy. These deployments honed his skills in naval operations, strategic planning, and high-stakes leadership.
The Abuja Land Confrontation: Lt AM Yerima Gains National Attention
Lt AM Yerima made headlines in November 2025 when he confronted Minister Nyesom Wike about a suspected land invasion in Abuja.
In the viral video, Yerima, clad in full navy attire, stood forcefully yet respectfully to defend what he characterised as Nigerian Navy property. His tone was calm, strong, and professional, reflecting his military background and unshakeable dedication to duty.
The incident soon took over social media, generating a national debate over military authority, government property rights, and accountability.
While many anticipated the officer to back down, LT AM Yerima remained calm, gaining international appreciation. Citizens hailed his courage and integrity, describing him as a “true soldier” and “a symbol of fearless discipline.”
The clash also sparked public interest in the management of government lands in Abuja, generating broader concerns about the rule of law and institutional accountability.
Personal Life
Despite his popularity, LT AM Yerima keeps his personal life private. He is unmarried as of 2025 and prefers a life centred on discipline, service, and personal development.
Net Worth
LT AM Yerima, an active-duty Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, earns a monthly salary of ₦500,000 to ₦800,000, based on allowances and years of service.
His net worth in 2025 is expected to be ₦50 million, including official allowances, housing, uniforms, and operational advantages. Unlike many public individuals, he lives a humble lifestyle that values honesty and discipline over financial fortune.
