Governor Fintiri Presents Staff of Office to New Mbege Ka Michika, Calls for Unity and Progress

In a historic ceremony held Thursday 20th February,  2025 , Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri officially presented the Second-Class Staff of Office to Professor Bulus Luka Gadiga as the new Mbege Ka Michika. The event, which took place in Michika, was attended by prominent dignitaries, traditional rulers, and government officials from across Adamawa State.  

Governor Fintiri, while presenting the staff of office, urged the new traditional ruler to work closely with the people of Michika to foster unity, justice, fairness, equity, and tolerance. He emphasized that these values are essential for the progress of Michika, Adamawa State, and Nigeria as a whole.  

" I urge you to unite and make the Chiefdom a model of unity, peace, progress and development. I call on all Michika sons and daughters to jettison the individualistic republican mind-set and imbibe  the culture of unity, solidarity and community spirit. 

Your remarkable wealth, sound education and profound talents should serve as assets for raising the prestige and development of the Chiefdom"  

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with traditional institutions to build a brighter future for the state. He also addressed critics attempting to sow discord through political maneuvering, stating that his government remains focused on delivering tangible results for the people of Adamawa.

"Let me be clear: my administration is resolute in its determination to achieve success, and we will not be deterred by the voices of critics whose primary pastime seems to be sowing seeds of disaffection within our communities under the guise of political manoeuvres. We are focused on delivering tangible results for the people of Adamawa State, building a more resilient and prosperous future for all" The added further, " Our commitment extends to poverty alleviation programs, supporting small and medium enterprises, and promoting green investments. We are also working to improve the ease of doing business in Adamawa State and increase internally generated revenue. Through these efforts, we aim to build a state where opportunities are accessible while I hope that traditional ruling institutions will support and even do better"

In his acceptance speech, Professor Bulus Luka Gadiga expressed gratitude to Governor Fintiri for restoring the lost glory of Michika and for finding him worthy of the throne. He pledged to work hand in hand with the state government to promote peace, unity, and economic development in the community.  

Professor Gadiga highlighted the significance of the creation of the Michika Chiefdom, describing it as a major step toward addressing the longstanding challenges hindering the area’s development. He promised to ensure that every voice in Michika is heard and that the concerns of the people are addressed.  

The traditional ruler also called on the youth to use social media responsibly, urging them to promote unity and progress rather than division. In recognition of Governor Fintiri’s contributions, he conferred upon him the traditional title of *"Likai Michika" (The Shield of Michika).  

Speaking on behalf of the Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mbamba reiterated the Adamawa Emirate’s commitment to collaborating with all newly created chiefdoms and emirates in the state. He emphasized the need for fairness, peace, and unity in governance.  

Alhaji Mbamba also addressed recent social media controversies regarding a statement made by the governor in Madagali. He clarified that the governor’s message was clear: all district heads affected by the creation of new emirates and chiefdoms should relinquish their previous titles. He urged the public to avoid misinformation and focus on maintaining the peace and unity enjoyed in the state. 

In a goodwill message on behalf of Michika elders, Sylvester D. David thanked Governor Fintiri for addressing the long-standing agitation of various ethnic groups in Adamawa. He assured the governor of their unwavering allegiance, loyalty, and support in advancing the economic, social, and political growth of the Michika Chiefdom.  

David called on all Michika indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to unite and uphold the dignity of their traditional institution.  

Earlier, Major Koji, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Fintiri for fulfilling the long-held aspirations of the Michika people by granting them their own chiefdom. He urged all citizens to work together to ensure peace, security, and progress in the region.  

The grand event also featured the official oath-taking of Professor Bulus Luka Gadiga as the Mbege Ka Michika, presided over by the Chief Judge of Adamawa State, Justice Hafsat Abdulrahman.  

The coronation ceremony marked a significant milestone for the people of Michika, celebrating their cultural heritage and setting the stage for renewed efforts toward unity, peace, and development in the community.

Aaron Isaac