In a significant display of royal endorsement and cultural solidarity, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has publicly acclaimed Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, as a genuine reformer and a shining example of transformative leadership in Nigeria.
A Royal Commendation in Maiduguri
The powerful commendation was delivered on Friday, 3 January 2026, during a private meeting at the Government House in Maiduguri. The revered monarch, who also chairs the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), was in the Borno capital to attend the combined convocation ceremony of the state-owned Kashim Ibrahim University (KIU).
Expressing his deep admiration for the governor's relentless efforts, the Ooni stated, "I like what you are doing, and I am very proud of you." He revealed his long-standing support, saying, "I want to come closer to you, as I have been a fan of yours for a long time, and you are a role model to many young people in this country." The Ooni emphasized that Zulum has proven his mettle as a true reformer, with many across the nation watching and supporting his work for the people of Borno.
Unveiling the Passion for Borno
Reflecting on the governor's distinctive dedication, Oba Ogunwusi shared a personal insight. "You have always been passionate about Maiduguri, and I always say to myself, 'what is in Maiduguri that you are so passionate about?'" he recounted. His visit provided the answer: "But today I came to Maiduguri, and I now see why you are always running back. I felt it when I came here. Honestly speaking, Borno is a beautiful state."
Reaffirming Ancient Yoruba-Kanuri Kinship
Moving beyond contemporary politics, the Ooni, a self-described student of history, delivered a profound historical account. He highlighted the deep-rooted ancestral connections between the Kanuri and Yoruba ethnic nationalities. "For me, as a traditional ruler from Ife, the Kanuris are our cousins; we are blood relatives, very strongly, as in very, very strongly," he declared.
Leveraging this renewed bond for progress, the monarch positioned himself as an advocate for investment in Borno, impressed by its vast agricultural potential. "I am an advocate right now. I will tell people to come and invest. I saw vast arable land for any kind of farming that can feed the entire nation," he urged.
To cement this fraternal bond, His Imperial Majesty presented Governor Zulum with a symbolic ancient artefact, representing the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. This gift served as a tangible token of respect and a reminder of the enduring ties between Nigeria's Southwest and Northeast regions.
Entourage and Governor's Response
The Ooni was accompanied by a distinguished delegation including:
- The Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole Adebayo
- The Alaagba of Aagba, Oba Rufus Olayinka Ogunwole
- The Onigbaye of Igbaye, Oba Joseph Okunlola Oni
- The Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Adesoji Oladepo
- The Vice Chancellor of OJAJA University, Ilorin, Professor Jeleel Ojuade
In his response, Governor Zulum expressed profound gratitude for the royal visit and the Ooni's acceptance of the role as Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University. He described the Ooni as a unifying figure and a dedicated champion of national unity and cultural preservation. The governor pledged to continue his administration's relentless pursuit of sustainable development and lasting peace for Borno State and Nigeria at large.
