- He said the governor’s commitment to reconstruction, peace-building and development had earned him admiration across the country
- He noted that the state’s natural assets, if properly harnessed, could attract serious investment and accelerate national food security
- The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, peace and inclusive growth
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has praised the natural endowments and scenic appeal of Borno State, pledging to mobilise investors to explore the state’s vast economic and agricultural potential.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarch gave the assurance on Friday evening in Maiduguri during a closed-door meeting with Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, at the Government House.
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During the interaction, the Ooni described Governor Zulum as a visionary leader whose reform-driven approach has reshaped governance and inspired hope beyond the borders of the state.
He said the governor’s commitment to reconstruction, peace-building and development had earned him admiration across the country.
Expressing his personal impressions after touring parts of the state, the revered monarch said Borno possesses expansive arable land capable of supporting large-scale agriculture and food production for Nigeria.
He noted that the state’s natural assets, if properly harnessed, could attract serious investment and accelerate national food security.
“I have seen enormous opportunities here. The land is fertile, extensive and suitable for different forms of farming. Borno can truly feed the nation,” the Ooni remarked, adding that he would actively encourage investors to take interest in the state.
He further commended Governor Zulum’s passion for Maiduguri and his unwavering resolve to rebuild the state despite years of security challenges.
According to the monarch, witnessing the transformation firsthand helped him understand the governor’s deep attachment to the state.
The Ooni also highlighted the historical ties between the Yoruba and Kanuri people, describing them as long-standing relations bound by ancestry and shared heritage.
He said such connections reinforce the need for unity and collaboration among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
In his response, Governor Zulum expressed appreciation for the Ooni’s visit and kind words, describing the monarch as a symbol of unity and cultural harmony. He thanked him for accepting the role of Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, noting that his presence would further elevate the institution.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, peace and inclusive growth, stressing that partnerships with traditional institutions remain vital to rebuilding Borno State.
The Ooni of Ife, who also chairs the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, was in Maiduguri to attend the combined convocation ceremony of Kashim Ibrahim University. He was accompanied by several prominent traditional rulers and academic leaders from across the country.
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