{
  "id": 2502317,
  "title": "Ndalayi: A royal meal going extinct",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/ndalayi-a-royal-meal-going-extinct",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-22T04:11:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Trust",
    "slug": "daily-trust",
    "url": "https://dailytrust.com/ndalayi-a-royal-meal-going-extinct/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In the sweltering heat of Maiduguri, a culinary delicacy known as ndalayi is teetering on the edge of extinction. This esteemed dish, also referred to as buri mairi, holds immense cultural significance for the Kanuri people, symbolizing authority and grace. Traditionally, ndalayi is reserved exclusively for royal banquets, weddings, and other high-profile events within the Shehu of Borno’s palace. However, modern lifestyle changes, evolving dietary preferences, and the arduous preparation process have placed ndalayi in grave danger of disappearing entirely.\n\nInside the palace, there is a palpable sense of sadness and concern as courtiers, cooks, and elders speak of the growing decline of this cherished delicacy. The chief protocol officer, Zanna Kawaskema, attributes the fading presence of ndalayi to a broader erosion of cultural traditions and the global shift towards healthier dietary habits. Moreover, the elaborate cooking methods add to its dwindling popularity. Despite these challenges, the royal family remains steadfast in their commitment to preserving this culinary treasure, emphasizing its importance in maintaining the dignity and history of the Kanem-Borno Empire.\n\nThe preservation of ndalayi is further complicated by the loss of traditional knowledge as veteran royal cooks pass away, taking their invaluable skills with them. However, the custodians of this culinary art are determined to keep the tradition alive. Women, in particular, are urged to learn the art of making ndalayi and incorporate it into their domestic cooking routines. One such custodian, Gambo, has spent over four decades perfecting the recipe, which relies on two primary ingredients: millet and oil. The production process is painstakingly long, taking a minimum of ten days to transform the ground millet into the tender, delicate ndalayi.\n\nDespite the challenges, those who have tasted ndalayi cannot deny its unique flavor and rich cultural heritage. The dish is often paired with fresh okra, dried okra, kuka (baobab leaf) soup, or ogbono, enhancing its deliciousness and nutritional value. While the original recipe remains confined to the historic royal quarters surrounding the Shehu of Borno’s palace, efforts are being made to revive the tradition and ensure that future generations can appreciate this culinary masterpiece.",
  "summary": "Amid the scorching sun and extreme weather patterns of Maiduguri, a quiet crisis is unfolding behind the imposing gates of the Shehu of Borno’s palace. It is not a political upheaval or security threat but a battle to save a culinary masterpiece – ndalayi – from slipping into extinction. Also known as buri mairi, which […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}