Governor Zulum Presents Staff of Office to Shehu of Dikwa, Commissions ICT Centre and Government Lodge

By Innocent Madaki
Dikwa, Borno State, In a historic ceremony, Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, officially presented the Staff of Office to the newly appointed Shehu of Dikwa, Alhaji Ibrahim Ibn Umar El-Kanemi. The event, held at the royal palace in Dikwa town on Monday, marked a significant moment in the traditional leadership of the emirate.

Alhaji Ibrahim Ibn Umar El-Kanemi emerged as the 13th Shehu of Dikwa following the passing of his predecessor, Alhaji Mohammed Ibn Shehu Masta II. Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Zulum emphasized the peaceful and transparent nature of the succession process, which was conducted in accordance with the emirate’s traditions and legal frameworks.

A New Era of Leadership in Dikwa: Governor Zulum underscored the evolving challenges of leadership in modern times, urging the Shehu to play an active role in fostering peace and development in the region.
“Your Highness has ascended the throne at a time vastly different from that of your predecessors. The process of recovery from years of insecurity is a collective responsibility, and you have a greater role in guiding your people towards peace and development,” Zulum stated.

He commended the resilience of Borno’s people and security agencies in the fight against insurgency, highlighting the significant improvements in security across the state.
“Nigeria’s battle against terrorism in the North-East for the past 16 years is gradually coming to an end. I commend the efforts of the Nigerian Military, security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and the people of Borno for their steadfastness during these trying times.”
Dignitaries and Royal Fathers in Attendance: The grand event attracted top dignitaries from across Nigeria, Cameroon, and Chad, including traditional rulers. Such as the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; and emirs from Zazzau, Fika, Lafia, and Maroua.
Among the Political leaders, including former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, Deputy National Chairman of APC, Ali Bukar Dalori, and senators representing Borno’s three senatorial districts.
Governor Zulum Commissions ICT Centre and Government LodgeAhead of the ceremony, Governor Zulum inaugurated two critical projects in Dikwa: An ICT Centre aimed at enhancing digital literacy and education.
A Government Lodge: to provide accommodation for visiting officials and dignitaries. These projects align with the administration’s commitment to rebuilding and modernizing Dikwa in the post-insurgency era.
The event reaffirmed the importance of traditional institutions in governance and community development, with the Shehu of Dikwa now officially entrusted with leading his people into a new chapter of peace and progress.