Born into poverty in Kano, Nigeria, Shehu was recruited into a gang when he was just seven years old. Later, his friend convinced him to switch over to the gang he was in.
The gang was called Boko Haram. One night Shehu’s life changed. He saw his best friend die as a result of the violence he was involved in. This was when he decided to leave a life of violence behind. He decided to fight for peace.
Shehu wanted to help other vulnerable young people choose alternatives to violence. So he created a space where neighbourhood boys and gang members alike could come and learn the difference between boxing and fighting. A place where they could find common ground.
This is his story.
