Ooni of Ife Backs Zulum's Aim to Make Borno Nigeria’s Food Basket

News in brief:

-The Ooni of Ife praised Governor Zulum’s leadership and Borno State’s capacity to feed Nigeria.

-He pledged to mobilise investors while highlighting historic ties between the Yoruba and Kanuri peoples.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, for what he described as reform-driven and transformative leadership, while affirming the state’s vast agricultural capacity to feed Nigeria.

The monarch said Borno possesses the natural endowments and land resources required to emerge as a major food-producing hub for the country.

Pledge to Mobilise Investment

Speaking during a private meeting with Governor Zulum at the Government House in Maiduguri on Thursday, 2 January 2026, the Ooni described Borno State as a beautiful and resource-rich region.

He pledged to mobilise investors to harness the state’s agricultural potential, noting that sustained peace and purposeful governance had created new opportunities for large-scale food production.

The traditional ruler also praised Governor Zulum’s commitment to rebuilding Borno despite years of security challenges.

Historical Ties Between Communities

The Ooni highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections between the Yoruba and Kanuri peoples, describing the relationship as one rooted in shared ancestry.

According to him, understanding history is essential to strengthening national unity and fostering cooperation across regions. The Ooni was in Maiduguri to attend the combined convocation ceremony of Kashim Ibrahim University, where he was formally appointed as Chancellor of the institution.

Zulum Reaffirms Development Agenda

In his response, Governor Zulum expressed appreciation to the monarch for the visit and for accepting the role of Chancellor. He described the Ooni as a unifying national figure and a strong advocate of cultural preservation, peace, and unity.

Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, agricultural expansion, and lasting peace, stating that positioning Borno as a leading food-producing state remains central to his vision for economic recovery and national contribution.