The Borno State Government has commenced a two-day training programme on traditional culinary heritage aimed at reviving, promoting and preserving the state’s rich indigenous cuisine.
The programme was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Adviser to the Borno State Governor on Culture and Regional Integration, Dr Zanna Hassan Boguma, under the theme, “Promoting Indigenous Cuisine.”
Dr Boguma said the growing influence of modern cuisine had prompted the initiative, which seeks to revive interest in traditional cooking and preserve indigenous culinary practices.
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He explained that the programme was designed to encourage young women to learn how to prepare traditional dishes as a means of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Borno State and Kanuri indigenous cuisine.
Dr Boguma urged participants to develop interest in traditional cooking and ensure that indigenous recipes and cooking methods were passed on to younger generations despite the increasing popularity of modern foods.
According to him, preserving traditional cuisine is an important aspect of safeguarding the cultural identity of the Kanuri people and ensuring that valuable indigenous knowledge is not lost.
The training brought together students from selected secondary and tertiary institutions across Maiduguri, exposing them to traditional Borno foods, cooking methods and the cultural values associated with indigenous cuisine.
The initiative is also expected to contribute to the preservation and documentation of Borno’s culinary heritage while equipping young people, particularly women, with practical skills that can translate into livelihoods and small-scale businesses.
The organisers said empowering young people with cultural knowledge and practical skills could strengthen community identity while creating opportunities in hospitality, food production and cultural entrepreneurship.
During the two-day programme, female students received practical lessons on preparing a variety of traditional Borno dishes using Kanuri culinary methods.
They were also introduced to traditional Borno dressing and cultural values, including mutual respect and the importance of peaceful family life.
The lead facilitator and President of the Kanuri Women Association, Hajiya Hajjaghana Sulaiman, expressed confidence that participants would apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training.
Some participants said the programme had deepened their appreciation of their cultural heritage while equipping them with practical skills that could contribute to their personal development and economic empowerment.
The event also featured a cultural drama showcasing the traditions of the Kanuri people through traditional dances, music and other performances, including the renowned Maliki Dance.
