Damagum, the headquarters of Fune local government area of Yobe State, came alive with colours, traditions, and jubilation as dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered to celebrate the silver jubilee of His Royal Highness, Dr Saleh Idris Ibn Usman, the Emir of Fune.
Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni (Chiroman Gujba and Sardaunan Fune), was represented by his deputy, Hon. Idi Barde Gubana (Wazirin Fune), at the grand ceremony held at the Emir’s Palace, Damagum.
The event drew attendance from high-ranking personalities, including the deputy governor of Kano State, Comrade Amin Abdulsalam Gwarzo, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-kenemi, the Emir of Fika and chairman Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Dr Muhammadu Abali Ibn Iddrissa and an array of traditional rulers from across Nigeria, as well as thousands of well-wishers who filled the palace grounds in the celebration of the emir’s 25 years on the throne.
In a goodwill message, Governor Buni, represented by the deputy governor, who is also the Waziri of Fune Emirate, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the life of the emir, stating that spending 25 years on the throne is a rare blessing from Allah and is worth celebrating.
The governor highlighted the importance his administration places on traditional institutions, noting their vital role in promoting peace and unity and offering counsel to the government cannot be overemphasised.
Buni congratulated the emir and prayed for Allah’s continued guidance and longevity for better and fruitful years.
The governor used the forum and extended appreciation to dignitaries who attended the celebration, especially the deputy governor of Kano State, the former deputy governor of Adamawa State, the Shehu of Borno, emirs from Bauchi, Biu, Misau, Deba, all Yobe State emirs, and key government officials such as the secretary to the state government, head of service, speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, and commissioners.
The Shehu of Borno, Alh. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai, who spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers, emphasised the need for royal fathers to promote peace and unity and congratulated the Emir of Fune for his enduring reign.
In his remarks, Emir of Fune, Dr Saleh Idris Ibn Usman, expressed gratitude to Governor Buni for his unwavering support to the Emirate and reflected on his 25-year reign since his appointment in 2000 following the passing of his elder brother, Mohammed Shuwa, noting significant achievements and infrastructural progress.
The emir thanked all emirs and traditional leaders for honouring the event. He called on his people to embrace farming for food security and prioritise education by enrolling their children in schools.
Ambassador Umaru Iliyasu Damagum, Madakin Fune and national chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), delivered a vote of thanks, appreciating the guests and urging the community to support the emirate and government initiatives.
The celebration featured a wedding ceremony, the turbanning of kingmakers and council members, and the installation of new district heads. A majestic Durbar procession led by the emir and various cultural performances added splendour to the historic event.
The event was attended by a distinguished roll call of traditional rulers, including the Emirs of Fika, Bade, Damaturu, Machina, Misau, Balanga, Kaltingo, Biu, Ningi, Uba, Nafada, Yusufari, Potiskum, Jajere, Mai Tangale, Nguru, Dukku, Daddari, and representatives of the Emirs of Zazzau and Gaya Emirates.
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