By Abdullahi Inuwa
In a landmark effort to preserve and celebrate the rich historical heritage of Yobe State, the government has announced plans to feature the iconic Dufuna Canoe in the design of a newly proposed roundabout, further highlighting the deep-rooted civilization and technological legacy of the region. The announcement underscores the cultural significance of the canoe, which remains one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries ever made in Africa.
Discovered in 1987 in the quiet village of Dufuna, near the Komadugu Gana River in Fune Local Government Area, the ancient canoe is estimated to be about 8,000 years old—making it the oldest canoe ever found in Africa and the third oldest in the world. The discovery confirmed that human civilization had long flourished in what is now Yobe State, thousands of years before the advent of modern history.
The canoe was accidentally unearthed by a Fulani herder who was digging in search of water for his cattle. Recognizing the importance of the find, experts from the University of Maiduguri, in collaboration with the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments, undertook a thorough excavation of the site in 1992. The findings revealed not just a simple boat but clear evidence of advanced woodcraft and early engineering skills, proving that people in this region possessed remarkable technological abilities long before recorded history.
“This canoe is not just an artifact. It is a symbol of African ingenuity, ancient civilization, and the resilience of our people,” an official from the Yobe State Ministry of Culture and Tourism said. “The plan to incorporate it into a major roundabout is a step towards educating our younger generations and promoting heritage-based tourism.”
The roundabout project, which will be executed In Sha Allah, will artistically capture the essence of the Dufuna Canoe in its full glory, giving both residents and visitors a powerful visual connection to the past. It will also serve as a cultural landmark, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the state’s urban landscape while reinforcing Yobe’s identity as a cradle of early African civilization.
Governor Hon. Mai Mala Buni, CON, COMN, has continued to demonstrate unwavering commitment to development and heritage preservation across the state. Under his leadership, Yobe is not only witnessing infrastructural growth but also a renaissance of historical consciousness. His administration’s focus on combining progress with identity has earned widespread praise.
“We pray Allah (SWT) continues to grant H.E. Mai Mala Buni the strength, wisdom, and steadfastness as he faces numerous projects across Yobe. The Dufuna Canoe roundabout is more than a construction project—it is a monument to our roots, a beacon of our enduring legacy,” a supporter commented during a community engagement.
As the project kicks off, anticipation continues to grow among the people of Yobe, who now look forward to seeing a proud piece of their history permanently etched into the heart of their state.
⁸Abdullahi Inuwa
Social Commentator ainuwa303@gmail.com
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