December 19 Showdown In Buguma! Dokubo-Asari’s Coronation Draws National Attention As Nengi James Gets Key Appointment
By Passman Akpos
BUGUMA, RIVERS STATE — Preparations for the coronation of Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari as the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari, have gathered momentum with the appointment of Se-Alabo Nengi James, OON, as Chairman of the Ijaw Welfare Unit of the Central Coronation Committee.
The appointment represents another major responsibility for the respected Ijaw personality, who described the assignment as a trust of camaraderie and cultural ambassadorship.
The appointment was signed by the Chairman of the Central Coronation Committee, Prince T.J.T. Tonye Princewill, as activities continue ahead of the monarch’s scheduled coronation on Saturday, December 19, 2026.
The ceremony is expected to take place at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State, as part of the SE DIYE and formal coronation rites marking the monarch’s ascension.
Nengi James Expresses Gratitude Over Appointment
In his statement announcing the appointment, Se-Alabo Nengi James expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him, describing the assignment as an opportunity to contribute to the success of the historic cultural event.
He also extended special appreciation to his friend and brother in national service, His Royal Highness Alhaji Asari Dokubo, the Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari.
The Ijaw Welfare Unit is expected to contribute to welfare coordination and related arrangements within the broader coronation planning process.
The appointment adds to the growing list of responsibilities being undertaken by members of the Central Coronation Committee as preparations intensify for the December ceremony.
Dokubo-Asari Visits Sultan Of Sokoto
In a related development, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari has paid a royal visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, as part of efforts to strengthen historical relationships between Elem Kalabari and Northern Nigeria.
During the visit, the monarch extended a personal invitation to the Sultan to attend his forthcoming coronation in Buguma.
The engagement highlighted the potential role of traditional institutions in promoting national unity, cultural understanding and cooperation across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
Speaking during the meeting, Dokubo-Asari disclosed that his relationship with the Sultan dated back many years, including several occasions when both men participated in the Hajj pilgrimage.
“I and the Sultan have known ourselves for a long time. We have been to Hajj three or four times together in the past,” he said.
He also informed the Sultan of the scheduled wedding Nikhai of Princess Nene Amirah Dokubo-Asari on December 18, 2026, one day before the final coronation ceremony.
Explaining the significance of the coronation, the monarch noted that the process of becoming fully coronated involves several traditional stages, with the December 19 ceremony expected to mark his formal presentation to his people.
Sultan Pledges Support For Coronation
Responding to the invitation, the Sultan of Sokoto expressed delight at receiving the delegation from Rivers State.
He commended Dokubo-Asari for his reported humanitarian activities and contributions to Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
“God is never wrong in whatever he does. For him to be elevated now, it means the works he has been doing have had a positive impact on the people,” the Sultan said.
He further described leadership as a responsibility entrusted by Almighty Allah and assured the visiting monarch of his continued support.
“By the grace of Almighty Allah, I will try and make it to your coronation,” he added.
The Sultan’s response was an encouraging development for the coronation organisers, although his attendance should not be regarded as confirmed until officially established.
Elem Kalabari And Sokoto: A Bridge Across Nigeria’s Cultural Divides
The engagement brings together two traditional institutions with distinct historical backgrounds and significant cultural identities.
Elem Kalabari, located in Rivers State, developed as a prominent maritime society shaped by riverine commerce, diplomacy and the traditional canoe-house system.
Sokoto, meanwhile, became the centre of the influential nineteenth-century Sokoto Caliphate established following the movement led by Sheikh Usman dan Fodio.
Observers of traditional institutions see engagements between historic centres such as Elem Kalabari and Sokoto as opportunities to encourage cultural exchanges, preserve historical heritage and strengthen relationships across Nigeria’s geographical and religious divides.
The invitation to the Sultan therefore extends beyond the immediate coronation arrangements, presenting an opportunity for continued engagement between the two institutions.
December 19 Coronation: What To Expect
The forthcoming ceremony is expected to attract traditional rulers, government representatives, cultural leaders, community stakeholders and other distinguished guests to Buguma.
The event will form part of the final coronation and ascension ceremonies associated with Dokubo-Asari’s reign as Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari.
The Central Coronation Committee, under the chairmanship of Prince T.J.T. Tonye Princewill, is coordinating preparations for the ceremony.
The appointment of Se-Alabo Nengi James as Chairman of the Ijaw Welfare Unit further expands the committee’s organisational structure as it prepares for the anticipated gathering.
However, while media reports have announced the coronation date and preparations, members of the public should consult the palace or the Central Coronation Committee for the official programme, invitation arrangements and other attendance details.
A Coronation With Broader Cultural Significance
Beyond the traditional rites, the December ceremony offers an opportunity to showcase Kalabari heritage, strengthen community relationships and promote dialogue among traditional institutions across Nigeria.
The planned participation of prominent cultural and traditional figures, alongside the invitation extended to the Sultan of Sokoto, adds a broader dimension to the event.
For the coronation organisers, the immediate task is to coordinate the remaining preparations and ensure that the ceremony reflects the cultural traditions and expectations of the Elem Kalabari people.
As December 19 approaches, attention will remain on the Central Coronation Committee, the role of its appointed officials and the response of invited dignitaries to the historic occasion.
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