Borno: Emir of Biu confers title of Sarkin Yaki on Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Biu (rtd.)
By: Zagazola Makama
The Emir of Biu, Alhaji (Dr.) Mustapha Umar Mustapha II, CFR, has conferred the traditional title of Sarkin Yaki Biu (Warlord of Biu Emirate) on former General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Commander Sector 1 and Commander Sector 3, Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Bulama Biu (rtd).
The colourful ceremony, held on Saturday at the Biu Emir’s Palace in Borno State, was attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria, including former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd.), who is also Betera of Biu, Garkuwan Keffi and a prominent member of the Biu Emirate Council.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Dr. Umar Usman Kadafur; Vice Chancellor of the Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB), Prof. Lawal Bilbis Buratai; top management staff of the university; retired and serving senior military officers; traditional rulers from neighbouring states; and political leaders from within and outside Borno.
The event featured cultural displays, traditional music, and the presentation of gifts by family members, friends, and well-wishers, including Dr. Usman Muhammad Gur and other notable personalities. Guests were treated to a grand reception marked by Hausa songs, Babur cultural performances, and a display of local war dances, symbolising the strength and heritage of the Biu people.
The Sarkin Yaki title, meaning “Warlord,” is among the most revered in the Biu Emirate and is traditionally reserved for distinguished sons of the land who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and service to the nation.
In recognition of the honour, admirers described Maj.-Gen. Biu as a fearless defender of the nation and a symbol of gallantry and patriotism.
In a tribute titled “A Quintessential General Turns Sarkin Yaki Biu Emirate,” General Biu was described as one of the most formidable figures in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations, whose name echoes with strength, courage, and unwavering patriotism.
As Commander of the 7 Division, General Biu led from the front during one of the most intense chapters of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts. He responded with fearless leadership, strategic brilliance, and an unshakeable resolve.
Under his watch, displaced communities began to breathe again. He built trust with local populations and championed civil-military cooperation, showing that the true strength of a soldier lies not only in arms but in humanity.
The conferment of Sarkin Yaki Biu is a fitting recognition of a lifetime dedicated to defending Nigeria and serving humanity.
“Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Bulama Biu (rtd.) is not just a military hero but also a symbol of what it means to serve with honour, lead with courage, and be remembered with pride,” it added.
The Emir of Biu, while performing the turbaning, prayed for the new Sarkin Yaki, commending his selfless contributions to national peace and security and urging him to continue serving as a beacon of unity and inspiration to the younger generation.
