The Coronation of Alhaji (Dr) Umar Kyari Ibn Umar El-Kanemi as the 2nd Shehu of Bama: A Historic and Grand Ceremony

By Dr. Kyari Mohammed PhD
17th February 2025

The coronation of the Shehu of Bama, Alhaji (Dr) Umar Kyari Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, as the 2nd Shehu of Bama was a grand and historic ceremony held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Bama Sports Centre in Bama, Borno State. This momentous occasion was not only a significant event in the life of the Shehu but also a pivotal moment for the entire community of Bama, reflecting the unity, tradition, and strength of its people.

The Significance of Coronation in the Life of Shehu and Traditional Leaders
Coronation is a sacred and historic rite of passage for traditional leaders, marking their ascension to leadership and their divine responsibility to govern with wisdom and fairness. The coronation of Alhaji (Dr) Umar Kyari Ibn Umar El-Kanemi reaffirmed Bama’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, symbolizing continuity and the resilience of its people. Traditional leaders in Northern Nigeria play a crucial role in preserving customs, mediating disputes, and fostering community development. This coronation underscored the vital role of the Shehu in guiding his people towards peace, progress, and prosperity.

A Unifying Force for Bama
The coronation brought together people from all walks of life from Bama and the entire Northern Nigeria, rallying them around a shared commitment to unity, development, and cultural preservation. The installation of the Shehu symbolized a renewed dedication by the people of Bama to strengthening communal bonds and fostering reconciliation. It demonstrated the significance of traditional leadership in promoting peace and stability.

Why Bama is Unique in Borno State
Bama holds a distinguished position in Borno State, not only due to its strategic geographical location and population but also because it is the only local government in the state with two State House of Assembly Members and the highest number of academic professors. The people of Bama are known for their strong academic and business orientation, with hard work deeply ingrained in their culture. Politically, Bama is a formidable force after Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and Jere Local Government, owing to its population size and influence. The deep love and pride Bama people have for their town are rooted in its rich history and cultural heritage. The coronation further reinforced this uniqueness, showcasing Bama as a center of tradition, resilience, and community spirit.

Distinguished Attendance: Traditional Leaders and Dignitaries
The coronation witnessed an unprecedented gathering of Government officials including the Executive Governor and his Deputy, traditional leaders from within and outside Nigeria. A total of 45 traditional rulers graced the occasion, led by the esteemed Sultan of Sokoto and the Shehu of Borno. Notably, 12 of these leaders honored Bama by spending the night in the town, a testament to the respect and significance accorded to the new Shehu. Their presence underscored the importance of traditional institutions and the solidarity among northern royal houses.

Well-Coordinated Event by Sons and Daughters of Bama
The success of the event was largely due to the meticulous planning and dedication of Bama’s sons and daughters, who formed various committees to manage different aspects of the ceremony. These committees included:
Central Working Committee
Feeding and Accommodation
Transport and Logistics
Security
Communication and Publicity
Protocols, Contact, and Mobilization
Cultural and Entertainment
Health and Medical
Each committee played a crucial role in ensuring the seamless execution of the coronation, from hospitality arrangements to media coverage and cultural performances.

Traditional Homage: District Heads and Durbar Contingent
Six district heads attended the ceremony with their respective contingents, showcasing their unwavering support and solidarity with the Shehu. Their presence was marked by traditional performances and displays of loyalty. A major highlight of the event was the Shehu’s Durbar Contingent, featuring over 80 well-decorated horses, with princes, princesses, and courtiers adorned in majestic Durbar attire. This magnificent display of equestrian tradition added a regal splendor to the occasion, reflecting the grandeur of Bama’s rich history.

Key Lessons Learned from the Coronation
The coronation was more than just a ceremonial event; it was a reaffirmation of Bama’s resilience, unity, and vision for the future. Major lessons learned from the event include:
The Resilience of Bamis: The event showcased the unyielding spirit of the Bamis, their ability to come together to solve problems, and their unwavering support for traditional leadership.
Galvanizing Support for the Shehu and the Bama Project: The overwhelming turnout and contributions from individuals demonstrated a collective commitment to honoring the Shehu and advancing the development of Bama.
Harnessing Community Support for Development: The level of support seen during the coronation can be channeled toward developmental projects, including education. Notably, there is already a growing initiative where citizens fund the education of underprivileged children.
Massive Voluntary Donations: Over 500 individuals contributed amounts ranging from five hundred naira to millions of naira, highlighting that the essence of giving was not in the amount but in the collective commitment to the Shehu and the Bama Project.
Sustaining Annual Mobilization for Development: The success of this event has set a precedent for the annual mobilization of resources to support developmental projects within the Emirate, fostering sustained growth and progress.

Government Support and Presentation of the Staff of Office
The unwavering support from the Borno State Governor, H.E. Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, FNSE, CON, was evident during the coronation. The Governor officially presented the Staff of Office to the 2nd Shehu of Bama, signifying official recognition and the state’s backing of his leadership. In his speech, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of Bama, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to rebuild the town and improve the welfare of its people.

A One-Day Event with a Lifetime Memory
The coronation of the 2nd Shehu of Bama was more than just a historical milestone; it was a defining moment that left a lasting impression on every attendee. The grandeur, unity, and spirit of the occasion will remain etched in the hearts of the people of Bama and beyond, serving as an enduring reminder of their shared history and collective aspirations for a brighter future.