Kanempress Bulletin 123 Gov Zulum Set to Present 1st Class Staff of office To Shehus of Dikwa/Bama: A Landmark Triumph of Tradition and Unity

……….Borno to Witness Massive Crowds as Dikwa and Bama Coronations Take Center Stage February 9th & 10th

By Zannah Ibrahim Mustapha Publisher and Editor -In -Chief Kanempress Digital Hub 3rd February 2025

In a grand display of tradition, unity, and history, the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, will bestow the staff of offices to the first class Shehus of Dikwa and Bama, the twin Emirates of deep historical significance in northeastern Nigeria and Africa. This momentous event marks not just a cultural celebration but also a significant step in reaffirming the role of traditional institutions in modern governance and national unity.

The royal ceremonies, will hold at the Dikwa and Bama magnificent palaces, will be attended by a vast array of dignitaries, including government functionaries, traditional rulers, politicians, cultural custodians, Illustrious sons and daughters and friends of the two Emirates. The event will be a spectacle of rich attire, songs, and cultural displays that remind world of the deep historical roots these Emirates hold, not only in Borno State but in the wider fabric of African history.

For the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama, the coronation is a reaffirmation of the central role these Emirates play in the social and political life of Borno and Nigeria at large. With both Emirates having been key players in the defense and administration of the state through centuries, their leadership continues to be a touchstone for preserving culture and mediating between the modern state and the traditional society.

A Nod to the Past, And for the Future

The deep historical significance of the Dikwa and Bama Emirates can be traced back to the ancient Kanem-Bornu Empire, a civilization known for its military prowess, scholarship, and inter-continental trade links. Throughout Nigeria’s history, traditional rulers like the Shehus have been custodians of peace, culture, and religion, often serving as intermediaries between the government and the people. Today, these royal institutions remain vital in fostering community cohesion, particularly in the face of contemporary challenges such as insurgency and displacement.

The Enduring Relevance of Traditional Institutions

While modern Nigeria is governed by democratic principles, the importance of traditional institutions like the Shehus cannot be overstated. They are powerful forces of social order, morality, and governance in the hinterlands of the country. In a world of shifting global powers, these institutions offer a sense of stability and continuity that aligns with the African philosophy of governance—one rooted in respect for heritage and community consensus.

In this respect, Nigeria is not alone in embracing the significance of traditional leadership. Across the globe, from the royal palaces of the United Kingdom to the monarchies of Japan and Thailand, traditional institutions have not only survived but thrived in the face of modernity. Much like the British monarchy, which, despite its ceremonial role, continues to be a pillar of national identity and continuity, Nigeria’s traditional leaders provide the same in their respective sphere of influence. As British royal commentator, Robert Lacey, once put it, “The monarchy’s role is to preserve the national fabric, giving citizens a sense of continuity and unity. It is not about political power, but the spiritual force of national unity.”

In Nigeria, the role of the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama as cultural symbols of unity cannot be overlooked. They are seen not only as rulers but as spiritual leaders, tasked with preserving the peace and promoting development within their domains. The event in Borno State symbolized this delicate balance of tradition and governance.

Reinvigorating Unity and Peacebuilding in Borno

The Emirates of Dikwa and Bama, though impacted by the insurgency, have remained bastions of hope and resilience. Their traditional leadership, rooted in centuries of cultural heritage, has helped to maintain order and foster cooperation in a period of instability.

The symbolic power of the Shehus lies not just in their ability to command respect but in their role as custodians of community values. They help reconcile people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, offering platforms for dialogue in times of conflict. The fact that traditional institutions like these continue to wield influence in modern Nigeria speaks to the unshakeable bond between the people and their royal leadership.

The State’s Role in Strengthening Traditional Institutions

Governor Zulum’s recognition of the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama also signals the state’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as partners in governance. Zulum has consistently championed the importance of involving traditional rulers some major decisions affecting their people, especially in areas related to security and social cohesion.

In a world where governance is increasingly fragmented, traditional leaders like the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama serve as stabilizing forces. Their reach and influence extend far beyond the palace halls, fostering grassroots peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and social integration. It is an enduring partnership that bridges the gap between modern governance and ancient wisdom, ensuring that Borno remains a place where tradition and modernity exist in harmony.

A Symbol of National Unity

Dikwa and Bama take their place in history, their roles are crucial not only in their Emirates but in the broader context of Nigeria’s national unity. The ceremony is not only about two individuals ascending to positions of power; it will be about reaffirming the relevance of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.

In a globalized world, where the strength of tradition often gets overshadowed by political and economic forces, Borno’s coronation of the Shehus serves as a reminder that history and culture are not relics of the past but active components of the present. Much like the British royal family symbolizes continuity and unity for the UK, the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama represent the heartbeat of Borno, their influence intertwined with the land, its people, and their future.

The coronation of the Shehus of Dikwa and Bama is not only a celebration of the past; it is an acknowledgment that traditional leadership is a vital pillar of peace, unity, and cultural preservation in modern Nigeria. In this moment, Borno finds itself at the intersection of history and progress, a state where its royal institutions remain steadfast, guiding the people through turbulent times while keeping their heritage alive.

The coronation of the Dikwa Emirate is slated for Sunday 9th February 2025, while that of the Bama Emirate will also take place on Monday 10th February 2025. These dates will be marked as milestones not only for the people of Borno but for the nation, highlighting the resilience and relevance of Nigeria’s traditional institutions in an ever-changing world.