Tradition, Legacy and Goosebumps in Bida

Last weekend, I had a “pleasurable ride” with amazing ladies to the northern part of Nigeria, Bida, (Niger State to be precise) to witness and celebrate the turbaning of Aishah Ahmad as the Soniya Asusu Nupe (Giwa) which means Queen of the Treasury.

I was told this is one of the highest titles of trust in the Nupe Kingdom, and honestly, I still get goosebumps thinking about it.

I can’t quite decide what moved me the most: the sheer beauty of the culture on display or the rich traditional protocols that led up to the turbaning. It was more than a ceremony; it felt like a national carnival that you simply have to experience in person to truly understand. 

The Kakaki trumpets filling the air with their bold, royal sounds and the drums booming alongside the ancient palace architecture with its tunnels and intricate designs, the majestic horses and riders in full costume, every detail carried history and meaning.

But the moment that stayed with me most was when Aishah, dressed in her full regalia, mounted her horse, lifted her staff high, and rode among the cheering crowd of men, women, and children. The atmosphere was electrifying. Honestly, it felt like a scene from a Disney movie; so regal, so glorious.

And as I watched, two truths settled in my heart:

• Consistent values matter: Be true to yourself, know what you want to be remembered for, and let it be something that creates impact for others.

• Stay connected to your roots: No matter how far your influence spreads, home is home. The Nupe Kingdom is so proud to call Aishah their own, not just because of her global impact, but because she is such a people person. I’m sure everyone who turned up, whether physically or celebrated online, can relate to this.

It reminded me of an African proverb: “When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.”

This day wasn’t just about Aishah. It was about tradition, legacy, and the power of remembering where we come from. So, join me in congratulating Aishah Ahmad CFA, OFR -  The Soniya Asusu Nupe (Giwa). And while you do, take a moment to ask yourself:

How am I staying true to my values, connected to my roots, and making a difference back home?