The Kanakuru, Bura-Pabur, and Fulani communities share a long history of cordial relations and cultural exchange, strengthened over centuries despite the influence of the Fulani Jihad, which introduced Islamic and Fulani elements while allowing each group to retain its distinct identity. Against this backdrop, the annual Menwara Cultural Festival continues to serve not only as a display of dance and entertainment, but as a vital platform for promoting unity and harmony among communities across Shani Emirate and the wider North-East.
Speaking at this year’s celebration, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Shani, Alhaji Muhammad Nasiru Mailafiya, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful completion of the farming season.
He welcomed the Guest of Honour, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who was represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur. The event also had in attendance the Chairman of the Bauchi State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, CFR; the Emir of Gombe, Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar, CFR; the Shehu of Bama, Alhaji Dr. Umar Kyari Umar El-Kanemi; the Emir of Biu, Alhaji Dr. Umar Mustapha II, CON; Amna Shelleng, Alhaji Abdullahi Isa Dasong; the Kwandi Dishon of Guyuk, Murum Mbula Bentley Biyapo of Demsa; and the Hamma Bata of Hummon, Alhamdu Teneke. Also present were the Chairman of Shani Local Government, Hon. Hassan Abdu Labaki, heads of parastatals, members of the press, traditional council members, as well as sons and daughters of Shani Emirate from within and outside Nigeria.
The Emir described the festival as an important annual gathering that brings together people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds to celebrate peace, unity, and shared identity. He emphasized that the platform enables indigenes of Shani Emirate—both at home and in the diaspora—to reconnect and exchange ideas that can contribute to the progress of the emirate, Borno State, and the entire North-East region.
He commended Governor Zulum for the developmental projects executed in Shani under his administration, noting that the Governor’s interventions and commitment have significantly improved the lives of the people. The Emir appealed to the Borno State Government to consider constructing a befitting central mosque in Shani to accommodate worshippers from the emirate and neighbouring communities.
Representing the Governor, Deputy Governor Kadafur praised the traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents of Shani for sustaining the Menwara Cultural Festival over the years. He described the celebration as a reflection of the unity, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of Southern Borno. According to him, the festival goes beyond entertainment, as it highlights shared traditions across the North-East and demonstrates the values of mutual respect and community cooperation handed down by ancestors.
He commended the Emir of Shani and the Emirate Council for their foresight in preserving cultural identity. Kadafur further emphasized the administration’s commitment to recognising traditional institutions as partners in governance and called on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as well as international bodies such as UNESCO, to take note of the rich cultural festivals in Borno State and harness their potential.
The Deputy Governor assured the people of Shani and Southern Borno of the government’s continued efforts to provide critical social amenities—including improved infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities—in both urban and remote communities. He added that the request for a central mosque in Shani would receive due consideration under the leadership of Governor Zulum, alongside other development appeals.
