Ajia, the newly turbaned Dan Amanar Fune
Abdulrahman Aliagan , Damagum, Yobe State
In a colourful and grand ceremony held at the Emir’s Palace in Damagum, headquarters of Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State, the President and Chief Executive Officer of FUNAB Group of Companies Limited, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, was on Saturday, June 28, 2025, turbaned as the Dan Amana (Custodian of Trust) of Fune Emirate.
The historic event was part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Saleh Ibn Uthman, on the throne as the Emir of Fune. The Emirate recognised Ajia for his outstanding philanthropy, unwavering loyalty to traditional institutions, and meritorious service to the nation.
In a statement earlier released by Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, Director of Communications to Alhaji Ajia, the turbaning was described as a befitting honour for a man whose relationship with the Fune Emirate spans nearly two decades.
Speaking during the turbaning ceremony, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fune, described Alhaji Ajia as “a trustworthy, honest, reliable, and dependable personality who has written his name in gold for his selfless service to the nation and humanity.”
The Emir fondly recalled Ajia’s days as the Security Aide to the late Governor of Yobe State, Senator Mamman B. Ali, during which he facilitated a seamless relationship between the Emirate and the state government. He noted that Ajia’s deep respect for traditional institutions and consistent support for development initiatives earned him a special place in the heart of the Fune Emirate.
Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia, the Dan Amanar of Fune Emirate
The monarch further highlighted Ajia’s philanthropic interventions, especially in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and humanitarian relief. “He has always extended support to orphans, widows, students, and vulnerable communities without discrimination based on ethnicity or religion. He is a patriotic and detribalised Nigerian,” the Emir said.
The silver jubilee celebration and turbaning ceremony witnessed an impressive turnout of dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders. Over 30 royal fathers graced the occasion, including the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Dr. Sa’ad Abubakar III; the Shehu of Borno, Shehu Garbai Alamin El-Kanemi; the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli; the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwan Suleiman Adamu; and the Emir of Lafia, Justice Idris Barde Muhammad (rtd).
Also in attendance were the Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni (CON), who served as the Special Guest of Honour, and the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, the Wazirin Fune, who was the Guest of Honour.
Several personalities at the event expressed admiration for the new Dan Amana. Malam Abubakar Barde, National President of Saiah Network, said, “This is the right time to honour Ajia. He is passionate about human and community development. The crowd that followed him from Abuja and Ilorin speaks volumes about who he is.”
Similarly, Barrister A.T. Ibrahim, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, noted, “With the kind of reception Ajia received, it is evident he has touched many lives and contributed immensely to the growth of Fune, Damagum, and Yobe State at large.”
In his response, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia expressed deep gratitude to the Emir of Fune and the entire Emirate for the rare honour bestowed upon him. He pledged to uphold the responsibilities of the Dan Amana title with integrity, humility, and commitment.
“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,” Ajia said.
Ajia, a former Aide-de-Camp to the to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, H.E. Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON (the Barde of Fune), has remained a strong advocate for nation-building. Since retiring from the Nigeria Police Force, he has continued to serve Nigeria through strategic investments, philanthropy, and advocacy.
The turbaning of Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia as Dan Amana of Fune Emirate stands as a testament to the enduring value of service, loyalty, and patriotism. It is also a reflection of the Emirate’s recognition of individuals whose contributions uplift society and bridge the gaps between government and the people.
As the celebrations concluded, Fune Emirate and its guests left with renewed hope and a powerful reminder that leadership built on trust, humility, and service will always be recognised and celebrated.
