Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has appointed the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, CFR, as the Chancellor of the state-owned university, recently renamed Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri.
The appointment, according to the governor, is aimed at strengthening the historic relationship between the ancient Ile-Ife Kingdom and the Kanem-Borno Empire, while also leveraging the Ooni’s vast experience and influence to advance educational development in the state.
Governor Zulum made this known on Tuesday during a visit to the Ooni’s palace, where he was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bukar Tijani. He noted that the Borno State Government recognised the Ooni’s outstanding contributions to the promotion of education across Nigeria.
In his remarks, the governor urged the monarch to use his influence, experience, and extensive network to support the growth and development of Kashim Ibrahim University.
“The Ooni of Ife is not only a royal father in South West Nigeria; he is a royal father to the whole of Nigeria, West Africa, and Africa. This appointment is also a reaffirmation of the age-long bond between the Ile-Ife Kingdom and the Kanem-Borno Empire,” he said.
Members of the governor’s delegation included Mohammed Habib Alkali, the Zanna Borkoma of Borno and member of the Borno Emirate Council; the Special Technical Adviser (STA) on General Services to the Governor; a former Permanent Secretary; and the Vice-Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Professor Babagana Gutti.
Responding to his appointment, the Ooni of Ife expressed appreciation to the Borno State Government for finding him worthy of the honour, pledging to contribute meaningfully to the realisation of the university’s vision.
He traced the historical ties between the Ile-Ife Kingdom and the Kanem-Borno Empire, noting that both empires share ancestral links and are among the oldest in Africa.
“I will not let you down. I will add value to the realisation of the vision of the university. I am very passionate about education, and the same energy and commitment I give to my own university and other institutions, I will bring to Kashim Ibrahim University,” the monarch said.
The Ooni further described the appointment as a homecoming, stressing his desire to be actively involved in the affairs of the institution rather than serving as a ceremonial figurehead.
“Don’t make me a figurehead Chancellor. Give me tasks, give me responsibilities, and I will gladly deliver,” he added.
Kashim Ibrahim University was recently renamed by the Borno State Government in honour of the late Sir Kashim Ibrahim, a former Governor of Northern Nigeria and renowned educationist.
