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In a grand ceremony steeped in tradition and honour, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, a prominent security expert, philanthropist, and politician from Ilorin, Kwara State, was turbaned as Dan Amanar (Custodian of Trust) of Fune Emirate at the Emir’s Palace in Damagum, Yobe State, on Saturday, June 28, 2025.
According to a statement by Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, the Director of Communication to Alhaji Ajia, the event formed part of the 25th Coronation Anniversary celebration of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Saleh Ibn Uthman, the Emir of Fune.
The palace came alive with royal colours and cultural pageantry as dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered to witness the honouring of a man whose national service and philanthropic impact have earned widespread recognition.
In his speech, the Emir of Fune described Alhaji Ajia as “trustworthy, honest, reliable, and dependable; one who has written his name in gold through selfless service to the nation and humanity.”
The Emir praised Ajia’s enduring relationship with the Emirate, which dates back nearly two decades, notably when he served as Security Aide to the late Governor of Yobe State, Senator Mamman Ali.
Ajia was recognised for his consistent support for education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and humanitarian relief across Nigeria through his MAI Foundation.
His interventions, according to the Emir, have touched countless lives regardless of ethnicity or religion; making him a truly detribalized Nigerian.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamali; the Emir of Bauchi, Dr. Riliwanu Suleimanu Adamu; and the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad, as well as the Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni (CON), who served as Special Guest of Honour.
In his remarks, Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia expressed deep appreciation to the Emir and people of Fune Emirate, promising to uphold the sacred responsibility the title confers.
“This is not just a title; it is a sacred trust. I will continue to work for the good of the Emirate, Yobe State, and our great country, Nigeria,” he said.
Alhaji Ajia, who voluntarily retired from the Nigeria Police Force in 2017 as 2IC Area Commander in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has a decorated career that includes service as ADC to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim; Police PRO, FCT Command; and Chief Security Officer to a former governor of Gombe State, among others.
He is currently the President/CEO of FUNAB Group of Companies and the PDP candidate for Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections.
Observers at the event commended the Fune Emirate for recognising Ajia’s contributions to national development.
“The turnout from Abuja and Ilorin shows how much he is loved and respected,” noted Barrister A.T. Ibrahim, an Abuja-based legal practitioner.
The turbaning of a son of Ilorin in faraway Yobe State has sparked conversations about local recognition, as many believe the Ilorin Emirate should take a cue and honour Ajia’s enduring contributions to community development, national unity, and human capital empowerment.
As the drums faded and the guests departed, one thing was clear: Ajia’s turbaning as Dan Amanar of Fune is not just a personal milestone but a powerful reminder that integrity, service, and humility are still celebrated across Nigeria.
By Sola Rotimi
