Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, on Saturday received a grand civic reception organised by Margi Worldwide during the unveiling of a new Margi national attire, where he reaffirmed his pride in his ancestral roots while highlighting major achievements of his administration.
Speaking at the event attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, and representatives of various ethnic nationalities, Governor Fintiri described the honour as deeply personal, noting that his journey in public service began with the support of the Margi people. He said his heritage shaped his values of courage, honesty, and perseverance.
The governor paid glowing tribute to Margi ancestors whose resilience, he said, built a community rooted in dignity, unity, and hard work. He expressed pride in belonging to the Margi nation, adding that he would choose the same identity if given the opportunity to return to the world again.
Fintiri reflected on the early days of his administration, recalling the insecurity, infrastructural decay, and weakening public trust that affected Adamawa State. He said his government prioritised peace-building, justice, and cooperation to restore stability, leading to Adamawa becoming one of the most peaceful states in the North-East.
He also highlighted major reforms in education, including the declaration of free and compulsory schooling, payment of WAEC and NECO fees, reintroduction of scholarships, staff training, and the establishment of model schools. According to him, “education remains the state’s covenant with the next generation.”
On healthcare, the governor announced improvements in facilities, recruitment of health personnel, and the establishment of an ultra-modern diagnostic laboratory offering free dialysis and other services at the Specialist Hospital, Yola.
Governor Fintiri also outlined his administration’s empowerment initiatives for youth and women, the creation of jobs, reforms in the civil service, and infrastructural projects aimed at easing life for residents. He described governance as “restoring hope, not just building roads.”
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of a new Margi national attire. The governor said the attire symbolises cultural pride and continuity, reminding Margi people everywhere of their identity and values. He described culture as a moral compass that must not be lost to modernity.
The governor expressed deep gratitude to Margi traditional rulers, including the Emir of Askira, the Emir of Uba, the Emir of Gwoza, and the Ptil Migzir of Madagali, as well as Margi sons and daughters across Adamawa, Borno, and Cameroon for their unity and support.
He also acknowledged neighbouring ethnic nationalities and royal fathers across Adamawa for their solidarity, pledging to continue strengthening unity among communities.
Governor Fintiri thanked fellow governors—Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Kefas Agbu of Taraba, and Babagana Zulum of Borno—as well as PDP leaders for their continued support to Adamawa State.
The governor reserved special appreciation for his wife, Lami Fintiri, whom he praised for her patience and sacrifice throughout his political journey. He dedicated the honour to his family and the people of Adamawa, noting that the state’s progress was achieved through collective effort and divine mercy.
He assured the gathering that his administration remains committed to completing ongoing reforms and projects across the state. “We are not resting; we are only retying our laces,” he said.
Thomas Terry