By Abdulkareem Haruna

BAMA, Nigeria – Dr. Umar Ibn Kyari Umar Elkanemi, 40, was officially crowned the second Shehu of Bama in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria, on Tuesday. The grand ceremony was attended by thousands, including 47 prominent traditional rulers.

He succeeds his late father, who passed away in April 2021, and becomes the youngest first-class traditional leader in northern Nigeria.

Elkanemi’s appointment and subsequent coronation occurred two days after his uncle, Ibrahim Ibn Umar Ibrahim, was installed as the Shehu of Dikwa, the second most prominent emirate in Borno.  Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State urged the council of chiefs and the community to support the new Shehu.

In his post-coronation address, Shehu Umar Ibn Kyari Elkanemi expressed gratitude to God, the government, and the council of kingmakers for adhering to traditional processes in his selection.  

He acknowledged the significance of the day for the Bama Emirate, emphasizing continuity, resilience, and the legacy of his forefathers.

“Today marks a significant moment in the history of the Bama Emirate,” the Shehu said, “a day that signifies continuity for the nation and the resilience of our people.” He added, 

“This event is not only a ceremony but a confirmation of our collective heritage and a day of reflection upon the legacy of our forefathers. It is with a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility that I accept this staff of office as the second Shehu of Bama.”

He praised his late father’s 30-year reign, highlighting his contributions to public health, education, peace, and development.  

“My late father dedicated his entire life to the service of the people,” he stated. “As I step into his mighty shoes, I will follow his example and be guided by the oath of office just administered to me.”

The Shehu acknowledged the devastation Bama suffered over the past decade, noting the relative peace now prevailing due to the efforts of the armed forces, security outfits, and the Civilian JTF. He pledged to continue fostering peaceful coexistence and supporting government initiatives.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their commitment to national security and expressed particular appreciation for Governor Zulum’s leadership in Borno State, citing the resettlement of displaced people and the provision of essential resources.  He also acknowledged the efforts to establish a Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship in Bama and expressed hope for its timely approval.

In an address following the presentation of the staff of office to the new Shehu of Bama, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed confidence in the new leader’s ability to provide inspired governance for the Bama Emirate, citing his pedigree and leadership experience.

Zulum urged the monarch to prioritize unity within the emirate, engage all ruling houses, and remain open to constructive contributions from relevant stakeholders. He acknowledged the vital role traditional rulers play in fostering understanding and peaceful coexistence among communities.

“Your contributions have been invaluable in mobilizing our citizens to complement government efforts, particularly in self-help initiatives,” Zulum stated. He emphasized the significant impact of community members on the socio-economic and political regeneration, peace, and stability enjoyed in the state.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to policies and programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents, aligned with Borno State’s 25-Year Development Framework and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Plan. He announced plans to close the Bama IDP camp and resettle displaced individuals from various communities by the end of the year, stating, “I have released funds for the restoration of electricity to Bama and will ensure that Gwoza town is also electrified.”

Zulum paid tribute to his late father, Alhaji Dr. Shehu Kyari Ibn Umar Elkanemi, the first Shehu of Bama, recognizing his significant contributions to education, preventive healthcare, peacebuilding, and mass mobilization. He expressed confidence that the new Shehu would build upon the solid foundation established by his father.

The governor also commended Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima for his role in initiating construction efforts in Bama town and extended gratitude to Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III and other traditional rulers from Nigeria and neighboring countries for their presence at the event.

The event was attended by Deputy Governor of Borno State Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, Yobe State Deputy Governor Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, former Borno State Governor Alhaji Ali Modu Sheriff, Chief Whip of the Senate Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume and Kaka Shehu Lawan, members of the national assembly, the Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, and the APC deputy national chairman. 

Other notable attendees included the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, various emirs and traditional rulers from Nigeria and neighboring countries, and former Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, among others.