Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has explained the appointment of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, as Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University (KIU), Maiduguri. He said the decision was both strategic and historical. It was also deliberate.
According to the governor, the appointment aims to strengthen the ancient bond between the Ile-Ife Empire and the Kanem-Bornu Empire. That relationship dates back over a millennium and it remains relevant today.
Zulum Links Appointment to Ancient Kanem–Ife Ties
Governor Zulum said the choice of the Ooni reflects shared history. It also reflects mutual respect between two ancient African civilisations.
Speaking at the Ooni’s palace on Tuesday, the governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani. He formally presented the monarch’s appointment letter.
He said, “We are here to present to His Imperial Royal Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, his appointment letter as the Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri. Oba Ogunwusi is a royal father with vast experience, not only in the education sector but in other endeavours of life.”
He further described the Ooni as a global royal figure. His influence, he noted, cuts across borders.
He added, “The Ooni of Ife is not only a royal father in South West Nigeria; he is a royal father in the whole of Nigeria, West Africa, and Africa. The kingdom of Kanem-Bornu Empire and the Ife Kingdom goes a very long way together.
“Both kingdoms are old kingdoms in Africa that have been there for more than 1,000 years and we rekindle this traditional relations by this appointment.”
Borno Government Seeks Active Role for Monarch
Beyond tradition, the state government made a direct appeal. It wants active involvement and measurable impact.
Zulum urged the Ooni to deploy his influence and experience. He also encouraged him to use his networks to strengthen the university.
The government believes traditional institutions can support educational development. Experts agree this approach enhances institutional growth.
Ooni Accepts, Vows to Add Value
Responding, the Ooni thanked the Borno State Government. He said the appointment was an honour; and pledged full commitment.
He said, “I will not let you down, I will bring value to the realisation of the vision of the university. I am very passionate about education. This same energy and passion that I am using for my own university and University of Nigeria, I will bring to your university.”
He also traced the historical link between both empires. According to him, their founders were related. Their bond, he said, remains strong.
He stated, “I have strong connection with Kanem-Bornu we are cousins, we have strong bond, we have a lot of things in common. We are the only kingdom that was never overtaken by Uthman Dan fodio movement. If you go down the history, we are the two oldest kingdom.”
‘Don’t Make Me a Figurehead Chancellor’
However, the monarch set a clear expectation. He wants responsibility, not symbolism. He wants to work.
Ooni declared, “You are welcoming me back home. I love dynamism, don’t make me a figure head chancellor, I want to add value, you should give me tasks to deliver, I will do it gladly.”
With the appointment, KIU enters a new phase. History, culture, and education now converge. The outcome may redefine royal involvement in Nigeria’s university system.