Mai Idris Alooma (reigned c. 1564–1596) was a powerful 16th-century king (Mai) of the Kanem-Bornu Empire who revolutionized military, economic, and maritime technology in the Lake Chad region. He is particularly noted for upgrading the navy to secure trade routes and expand his empire. He designed and introduced specialized flat-bottomed boats capable of navigating both deep and shallow waters in Lake Chad.These larger, improved boats were built to strengthen military control, protect against en