Adamawa at 35: Fintiri govt showcases development strides
Adamawa State government has marked 35 years of statehood, with the government highlighting its development strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare and agriculture while urging residents to preserve peace and unity.
The state was created on 27 August 1991 following the division of the former Gongola State into Adamawa and Taraba states, with Yola as the capital.
In a statement marking the anniversary, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Leader Leneke, said the milestone offered an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey and honour those whose contributions had shaped its progress.
The government said Adamawa’s development had been the product of successive administrations since the return to democratic rule in 1999, as well as the collective efforts of civil servants, traditional and religious leaders, farmers, entrepreneurs and young people.
It singled out the administration of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, which came to power in 2019, for pursuing what it described as an ambitious development agenda centred on infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, human capital and rural development.
Road construction and rehabilitation have been expanded across the state, while public institutions and urban infrastructure have also received renewed investment, the government said.
Education remains another major focus, with the administration establishing Fintiri Model Schools, supporting tertiary institutions and introducing measures to tackle the problem of out-of-school children.
The government said a programme targeting 24,000 out-of-school girls was designed to increase enrolment and keep more girls in school.
Healthcare has also featured prominently in the administration’s development programme, with investment in hospitals and primary healthcare facilities alongside the ongoing Mother and Child Hospital project in Jimeta.
In agriculture, the government said farmers had benefited from improved access to inputs, mechanisation and other interventions aimed at boosting productivity and strengthening food production.
It also cited recent approvals for fertiliser and tractors as part of efforts to expand agricultural production and support farmers across the state.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the government described Adamawa’s people as its greatest asset, acknowledging indigenes whose contributions have made an impact in Nigeria’s political, military, academic, diplomatic and economic life.
It called on residents to protect public infrastructure and support development initiatives, while maintaining peaceful relations across the state’s ethnic and religious communities.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, the government also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to shun violence and divisive politics.
It said electoral contests should be based on ideas, competence and character rather than intimidation, violence or communal divisions.
The government congratulated Adamawa citizens at home and abroad on the 35th anniversary, calling for renewed collective commitment to building a more peaceful, prosperous and united state.
It said the next 35 years should build on the gains of the past while opening new opportunities for development and improving the quality of life of residents.