Editorial: Governor Fintiri, Adamawa’s most patriotic leader ever.
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s leadership in Adamawa State demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the state’s growth and unity. His persistent efforts to improve Adamawa, along with his extraordinary patriotism, made him an exemplary leader in the state’s history.
Under his leadership, the state made significant advances in important sectors including as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. But probably the most distinguishing feature of Fintiri’s leadership is his unrelenting devotion to the welfare of the people, which places him among Adamawa’s most patriotic leaders.
Fintiri’s term has been distinguished by his in-depth awareness of the state’s sociopolitical processes. Adamawa’s vast variety presents distinct problems, ranging from ethnic conflicts to economic and traditional leadership discrepancies. However, Fintiri’s inclusive governance style ensures that all communities are represented and have a say.
His governing style prioritises physical infrastructure but also fostering social cohesion, creating opportunities, and upholding Adamawa’s rich cultural history. Working persistently to reconcile a state that has been historically and politically divided is an act of patriotism in and of itself.
The governor is a leader who continuously examines all opinions. This time, the governor’s resolve to challenge the status quo in the Adamawa district and chiefdom is motivated by his love for everyone in the state, rather than hate.
Adamawa state is a heritage for the state’s over 80 tribes, who demand leaders who will communicate with them in their own language.
Prior to this modification, the chairmanship of the Adamawa Traditional Council was not rotational to ensure equity and fairness. However, the most recent change by Boni Haruna transferred the chairperson to Lamido Adamawa.
The governor’s latest modification is within his jurisdiction as the state’s main security officer; most of the opponents today have never felt the heartbeat or anguish of other senior Adamawa chiefs during Boni Haruna’s decision to permanently transfer the council’s leadership to Lamido.
For example, if an Adamawa person needs traditional institutional assistance in certain areas and resides in Hildi, Uba, they must travel nearly 200 km to the city centre to file a complaint with the Lamido. This is required if the complaint goes beyond the district heads’ jurisdiction, as most new concerns in rural regions, particularly those linked to security, are outside their purview.
Most of the people who are yelling now are unaware that all of Adamawa’s districts and chiefdoms were constituted by state legislation. The 1999 constitution, as modified, excludes traditional institutions, therefore the state supervises their operations alongside the governor.
Those who grieve more than the bereaved should be aware that the state uses constituency de-elimination when appropriate and changes the constituency when the population reaches a specific threshold. It is unfair to delegate authority to a specific person who fails to communicate when necessary. As a result, the planned rotation of the presidency of the Adamawa traditional council is the most advantageous development for the state.
Fintiri’s emphasis on regional security strengthens his reputation as a patriotic leader. As governor, he has continually demonstrated that the safety of his constituents is vital. With the North-East facing security issues, Fintiri has collaborated with both federal and local officials to maintain calm in Adamawa.
His proactive backing for security services and collaboration with community leaders has helped to maintain relative quiet in the region, allowing economic activity to develop and inhabitants to live without fear of violence or relocation.
As Governor Fintiri finishes his tenure in 2027, the people of Adamawa may be confident that their leader’s dedication to their well-being is unwavering. His legacy would be characterised not just by the development initiatives he launches, but also by his strong love and patriotism for Adamawa State. Fintiri believes that serving Adamawa is more than simply a political career; it is a lifelong dedication to his people and their success.