By Tom Garba
In a historic stride toward equity, development, and grassroots governance, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has ushered in a transformative era with the creation of seven new emirates and chiefdoms.
This bold initiative, culminating in a series of vibrant coronation ceremonies between February 5 and February 20, 2025, has ignited hope across the state, promising to reshape its political landscape and unlock unprecedented opportunities for its people.
From the bustling streets of Fufore to the resilient hills of Michika, Adamawa is witnessing a renaissance of identity, unity, and progress—met with resounding applause from the majority, even as a few dissenting voices fade into the background.
A Vision Realized: Seven New Pillars of Progress
The establishment of these new traditional institutions—five chiefdoms and two emirates—marks a pivotal moment in Adamawa’s history. Signed into law at the close of 2024 by Governor Fintiri following swift passage by the Adamawa State House of Assembly, the new entities include the chiefdoms of Huba (Hong), Madagali (Gulak), Michika (Michika), Gombi (Gombi), and Yungur (Dumne), alongside the emirates of Fufore (Fufore) and Maiha (Maiha).
Each was meticulously crafted to reflect the state’s diverse cultural tapestry while addressing long-standing aspirations for local autonomy.
The positive impacts of this move are already reverberating. For over a century, communities like the Huba in Hong had yearned for recognition, their chieftaincy struggles dating back to colonial times.
Now, with the creation of the Huba Chiefdom, a 120-year-old dream has been fulfilled, as noted by Dr. Idi Hong, Chairman of the Coronation Committee.
Across the state, these new institutions are poised to enhance local governance, boost economic development, and foster peace by giving communities a stronger voice in their affairs.
Infrastructure projects, educational advancements, and agricultural initiatives—hallmarks of Fintiri’s administration—are expected to gain momentum as traditional rulers partner with the government to drive progress.
Coronations of Commitment: Fintiri’s Stand for Unity and Development
Governor Fintiri, often dubbed the “Project Master”, “Fresh Air” for his relentless focus on development, presided over each coronation with a clear message: traditional leadership is a catalyst for a thriving society.
The ceremonies, which began on February 5 at the Atiku Abubakar Stadium in Fufore with the crowning of Alhaji Sani Ribadu as the first Emir of Fufore, and concluded on February 20 in Michika with Professor Bulus Luka Gadiga’s installation as Mbege Ka Michika, were more than symbolic—they were a clarion call for unity and collective advancement.
At Fufore, Fintiri emphasized opportunity and well-being, presenting the staff of office as a mandate for the new emir to uplift his people.
In Madagali, where he crowned Dr. Ali Danburam as Ptil Madagali, he highlighted security and justice, urging the ruler to harness the area’s resilience—once battered by Boko Haram—for economic growth.
In Michika, his words to Professor Gadiga underscored the Kamwe people’s rich heritage and potential, calling for education and commerce to elevate the chiefdom.
Each event saw Fintiri champion fairness, inclusivity, and modernization, aligning traditional roles with his administration’s developmental goals.
The Gubo of Yungur, Johnson Matalo, captured the sentiment of many when he declared, “The creation of these seven chiefdoms and emirates is a testament to our governor’s commitment to peace, unity, and development.
We appreciate this historic step, which has given our people a stronger voice and a clear identity.” Such endorsements reflect the widespread optimism that these new entities will bridge gaps between the government and rural communities, amplifying local influence in state affairs.
A Shifting Political Landscape: Empowerment and Majority Will
The establishment of these emirates and chiefdoms is more than an administrative reform—it’s a political game-changer.
By decentralizing traditional authority, Fintiri has empowered local leaders to play a more active role in governance, potentially strengthening his support base within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and beyond.
Analysts suggest this move could solidify his influence in Adamawa’s diverse regions, particularly in the north, where Michika and Madagali hold significant sway, and in the central zones of Hong and Gombi.
The restructuring also carries symbolic weight. The revocation of titles tied to the old Adamawa and Mubi emirates—including Fintiri’s own Sarki Yaki Mubi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s Waziri Adamawa, and ex-Governor Boni Haruna’s Makama Mubi—signals a break from past hierarchies, aligning district heads with the new order.
While this sparked murmurs of discontent from a handful of elites, the overwhelming majority have embraced the shift, viewing it as a modernization of tradition that benefits the masses rather than a privileged few.
Across Adamawa, the coronations drew thousands, their lusty applause drowning out the faint grumbles of detractors. In Hong, Dr. Emmanuel N. Musa of the Emnamu Global Foundation hailed the Huba Chiefdom as “Fintiri’s unforgettable gift,” a sentiment echoed in Fufore, Maiha, and beyond.
The will of the majority has prevailed, with communities liberated from decades of marginalization now celebrating their newfound status.
Over 1.5 million people across the affected local government areas stand to benefit directly, their voices amplified through leaders who reflect their heritage and aspirations.
A Few Fumes, But Progress Prevails
Not all have welcomed the change with open arms. Some critics, particularly those tied to the old emirate structures, argue that the restructuring dilutes historical prestige or risks political favoritism.
Yet, these voices remain a minority, overshadowed by the jubilant crowds who see Fintiri’s vision as a long-overdue correction.
The governor’s directive for traditional councils to propose new titles, coupled with the Lamido of Adamawa’s authority to recommend reinstatements, offers a path to reconciliation—but the focus remains firmly on the future.
As Adamawa basks in this transformative moment, Governor Fintiri’s legacy as a unifier and innovator grows stronger.
The seven new emirates and chiefdoms are not just lines on a map—they are beacons of hope, promising a more inclusive, prosperous, and politically vibrant state.
With the majority’s will driving this change, Adamawa stands on the cusp of a golden era, its people ready to reap the rewards of a governor who dared to dream big—and deliver.
