Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State presided over the coronation and presentation of staff of office to Alh. Ahmadu Saibaru as the first Emir of the newly created Maiha Emirate on February 13, 2025. The event marked a significant step in the state's ongoing revitalization of traditional institutions.
The Third Class Emir of Maiha Alh. Ahmadu Saibaru born on 12 August 1971 is a seasoned administrator with a Master Degree in Business Administration.
Delivering his speech at Jalingo-Maiha Central Primary School Maiha venue of the coronation, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri said, the even for the coronation of Emir of Maiha as a Third Class Emir, is an integral part of the ongoing revitalization of the cherished traditional institution in the State.
He emphasized that the installation of the Emir of Maiha follows the recent creation of new emirates and chiefdoms in the state, including Fufore, Yungur, and Gombi, with upcoming installations planned for Hoba, Madagali, and Michika.
The Governor emphasized the importance of these newly created entities in strengthening local governance, preserving cultural heritage, and serving as centers for dispute resolution. He also highlighted their role in improving control of ungoverned spaces, strengthening social cohesion, and enhancing peace, security, and development.
“The creation of these emirates and chiefdoms represents a bold move to modernise the traditional institution while simultaneously preserving its cultural significance,” Governor Fintiri explained.
“These new entities are intended to serve as centres for dispute resolution, improve control of ungoverned spaces, strengthen social cohesion, and enhance peace, security, and development across the state.”
The ceremony also saw the presence of dignitaries from within Adamawa State, neighboring chiefdoms, and Cameroon, underscoring the interconnectedness of the communities.
Governor Fintiri acknowledged the skepticism surrounding some of these changes but reiterated his government's commitment to progress.
"Change, especially when it involves long-standing traditions and power structures, is often met with resistance," the Governor acknowledged.
"However, this government remains resolute in its commitment to peace and unity. We recognise that constructive criticism is essential for good governance, but we will not allow baseless accusations and negativity to derail our efforts to build a better Adamawa State for all."
He stressed that these reforms, including the creation of new chiefdoms and emirates, represent a progressive step towards reinforcing the traditional leadership system. He believes that empowering traditional rulers and recognizing their vital role in community governance fosters growth, encourages participation, and enhances peace, security, and neighborhood watch.
Governor Fintiri congratulated the people of Maiha and recognized the emirate's cultural diversity and economic potential. He mentioned the "Bullam" dress produced in Maiha, the proximity to Mubi, the border with Cameroon, and the agricultural potential, particularly in livestock.
He further congratulated Alh. Ahmadu Saibaru on his appointment, urging him to cultivate inclusivity, equity, fairness, and justice in his reign, serving all residents regardless of ethnicity or religion. He also emphasized the importance of security and a strong relationship between the Maiha Emirate and the local and state governments.
In his acceptance speech, the Emir of Maiha, HRH Alhaji Ahmadu Saibaru, said that as the first Emir of Maiha, he was aware of the responsibilities bestowed upon him and assured everyone that he would discharge his duties according to the oath he had taken.
He said that Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri had demonstrated good leadership in good governance and pledged to build on it.
He thanked Governor Fintiri for sustaining peace in Maiha, which he said was among the LGAs that were taken over by insurgents.
The Chairman of Maiha Local Government Area, Abubakar Mustapha Abdullah, while welcoming and thanking the guests for honouring their invitation to witness the coronation of the first Emir of Maiha, said that the Maiha emirate would promote peace and assured everyone that the LGA would support the Emir to discharge his duties accordingly.
On his part, the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Emirs of Adamawa State, the Lamido Adamawa, HRH Alhaji Dr Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, represented by the Wali Adamawa, Alhaji Abdulkadri Mbamba, lauded Governor Fintiri for the gigantic projects in the state and pledged his unflinching solidarity to the Governor. He charged the first Emir of Maiha, HRH Ahmadu Saibaru Sanda, to be just to all.
In his goodwill message, Engineer Belson Jelani lauded Governor Fintiri for providing good governance to the people, which he said some governments overlooked. He emphasised that there is no enduring success in politics, only for those who are doing heroic things. He charged the Emir of Maiha to carry everyone along while discharging his duties.
The oath of office and allegiance was administered to the Emir of Maiha, HRH Alhaji Ahmadu Saibaru Sanda, by the Chief Judge of Adamawa State, Honourable Justice Hapsat Abdulrahaman.
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