Governor Zulum Appoints Ooni of Ife as Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University

In a move to strengthen historical ties between the Kanem-Borno and Ile-Ife empires, the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has appointed the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, as the Chancellor of the state-owned Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri.

The appointment was formalized on Tuesday during a visit to the Ooni's palace by a Borno State delegation led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Bukar Tijani. The SSG, representing Governor Zulum, stated that the appointment recognizes the Ooni’s tireless promotion of educational development across Nigeria and Africa.

"The Ooni of Ife is a royal father for the whole of Nigeria and Africa," the SSG remarked. "We appeal to His Majesty to leverage his immense influence, experience, and global network to support the growth and development of this institution."

Responding to the appointment, Oba Ogunwusi expressed gratitude to the Borno State Government, vowing to be an active participant in the university's progress rather than a "figurehead" chancellor.

"I will not let you down; I will bring value to the realization of the university's vision," the Ooni stated. "I am deeply passionate about education. The same energy I dedicate to the University of Nigeria and my own private university, I will bring to Kashim Ibrahim University."

The monarch also highlighted the deep-rooted ancestral connection between the two empires, noting that the progenitors of the Ile-Ife and Kanem-Borno kingdoms were cousins. He observed that both remain among the oldest empires in Africa to have successfully maintained their sovereignty throughout history.

The delegation included high-ranking officials such as Mohammed Habib Alkali (Zanna Borkoma of Borno), and the Vice-Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Professor Babagana Gutti.