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As part of grand celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Saleh Ibn Uthman, on the throne as Emir of Fune, the Emirate Council has announced the conferment of the revered traditional title of Dan Amana (Custodian of Trust) on Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, President and Chief Executive Officer of FUNAB Group of Companies Limited.

The honour, which highlights Alhaji Ajia’s consistent record of philanthropy, national service, loyalty, and selfless contribution to the development of the Fune Emirate and Nigeria as a whole, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Emir’s Palace in Damagum, the headquarters of Fune Local Government Area in Yobe State.

This was disclosed in an official statement issued on Thursday by Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, Director of Communications to Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia.

A Fitting Tribute to Service and Integrity

According to the Emir of Fune, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Saleh Ibn Uthman, the conferment of the Dan Amana title is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated unwavering loyalty, integrity, trustworthiness, and a lifetime commitment to the welfare and progress of the Emirate.

Speaking on the choice of Alhaji Ajia for the honour, the Emir described him as “a dependable, selfless, and humble personality whose numerous contributions to the Emirate and Nigeria at large have remained impactful over the years.”

“Ajia’s patriotism, humility, and dedication to service are well known. His relationship with the Fune Emirate is not transactional but one that has grown organically over the years, grounded in mutual respect, trust, and shared commitment to community development,” the Emir said.

Longstanding Relationship with Fune Emirate

Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia’s deep and long-standing relationship with the Fune Emirate dates back to his days as Security Aide to the late Governor of Yobe State, Senator Mamman B. Ali, of blessed memory. During this period, Ajia played a pivotal role in strengthening government-emirate relations. He was regarded as the trusted channel of communication between the Governor’s office and the Emir’s palace, a role he discharged with uncommon dedication and diplomacy.

Further deepening his connection with Fune Emirate and the wider Northern traditional institution, Ajia went on to serve as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), His Excellency, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, GCON, who himself holds the prestigious title of Barde of Fune.

These roles positioned Ajia as not only a trusted link between modern governance structures and traditional institutions but also a respected figure whose loyalty and humility earned him admiration across the state and beyond.

A Track Record of Philanthropy and Community Service

Beyond his public service engagements, Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia has become nationally recognized for his philanthropic interventions and commitment to social development. Through personal efforts and as President of the FUNAB Group, Ajia has touched thousands of lives across Nigeria.

His contributions span critical sectors such as education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and humanitarian relief. He is noted for sponsoring scholarships for underprivileged students, providing medical support for the sick, and initiating youth empowerment programs aimed at reducing unemployment and poverty.

Ajia has also provided support for widows, orphans, and vulnerable groups across ethnic and religious divides—an approach that aligns with the Emirate’s inclusive ethos of unity, peace, and social cohesion.

“The choice of Ajia for this title reflects the collective appreciation of the Emirate for his numerous charitable activities and unwavering commitment to human development,” the statement from his Communications Director noted.

National Dignitaries Expected at Historic Event

The turbaning ceremony forms part of the elaborate program marking the Silver Jubilee of the Emir’s ascension to the throne. The series of activities will begin with a special Jumat prayer on Friday, June 27, followed by the wedding ceremony of the children of the Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, who is the Wazirin Fune, on Saturday, June 28.

The Emirate has confirmed that over 30 prominent traditional rulers and distinguished personalities from across Nigeria are expected to grace the occasion. Notable among the dignitaries are His Eminence, Dr. Sa’ad Abubakar III, Sultan of Sokoto; Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness, Shehu Garbai Alamin El-Kanemi; Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli; Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwan Suleiman Adamu; and Emir of Lafia, Justice Idris Barde Muhammed (rtd).

Also expected at the event is the Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni (CON), who holds the traditional titles of Chiroma of Gurba and Sardauna of Fune, serving as the Special Guest of Honour. The Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana (Wazirin Fune), will serve as the Guest of Honour.

Celebrating a Life of Service and Humility

In the concluding part of the statement, the Emirate Council called on friends, associates, and well-wishers from within and outside Nigeria to join in celebrating Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia, describing the event as not just a personal honour but a symbolic recognition of dedication to national service and the upliftment of humanity.

“The turbaning of Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia as Dan Amana is a celebration of trust, patriotism, humility, and unwavering loyalty to community and country. His life and career continue to exemplify the values that the title represents,” the statement emphasized.

The Emirate noted that the entire event will not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Fune people but also underscore the enduring relevance of traditional titles in recognizing merit, promoting social cohesion, and strengthening Nigeria’s diverse socio-political fabric.

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