Mai of Borno

The Mai became the traditional ruler of the Bornu Empire, a Kanuri state in the Lake Chad region. His reign occurred during the empire's decline, facing pressure from the Fulani jihad and internal rebellions.

The Mai's army was defeated by Fulani jihadists at the Battle of Ngala, leading to the loss of western Bornu territories. This defeat weakened the empire's control over trade routes and reduced its political influence.

The Mai signed a commercial treaty with the British Empire, granting trading rights in Bornu. This agreement aimed to counter the Fulani threat by securing European support, but it also increased British influence in the region.