A new era has dawned in Gombi with the coronation and presentation of Staff of Office to the first Kumu Gombi, Mr. Aggrey Bechour Ali a seasoned administrator who served as Permanent Secretary in Adamawa State Government.
The ceremony was met with jubilation as residents celebrated the culmination of a long struggle for self-determination at Gombi 1 Primary School, Gombi.
The Governor of Adamawa State the Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri expressed his happiness at the creation of the new chiefdom, stating, "Today, we stand on the threshold of a new dawn in Gombi. This occasion...ranks high among events that make me happy and fulfilled."
He emphasized the unity and shared aspirations of the various ethnic groups within the chiefdom, including the Ga’anda, Lala, Bura, Hona, Ngwaba, and Fulani, noting their rich individual histories and cultures.
"Gombi Chiefdom is an example of the Adamawa spirit that says we can achieve great things when we come together regardless of tribal, religious or other narrow sentiments," he declared.
The Governor highlighted the government's commitment to improving the lives of its citizens through various initiatives, including road construction, healthcare, education support, and empowerment programs.
He explained that the creation of new chiefdoms and emirates is a further extension of this commitment, recognizing the importance of dignity, self-worth, and cultural identity.
“Beyond physical needs, we also need and deserve dignity, self-worth and cultural identity,” he stated.
He congratulated the newly installed Kumu Gombi, Mr. Aggrey Bechour Ali, praising his experience as an administrator and manager.
“I hope that he will bring his administrative acumen and managerial skills into his reign as Kumu Gombi,” the Governor said.
He also urged the Kumu Gombi to prioritize peace and security, particularly addressing the issue of banditry in the region.
“I am aware that bandits and criminal elements often use Gombi Local Government as transit routes. The new Gombi Chiefdom will hopefully open a new vista to the existing security measures in the area,” he added.
The Governor reiterated the ban on charcoal production and illegal mining, urging traditional rulers and security agencies to enforce the law. He called on all residents of Gombi to support the Kumu Gombi and work together to make the chiefdom a model of peace, harmony, and development.
“I urge all sons and daughters of Gombi...to support the Kumu Gombi and the chiefdom towards making it a model of peace, harmony, solidarity, progress and development.”
The Governor concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to the progress of Adamawa State. “Adamawa State is working. Adamawa State is on the right trajectory towards a glorious destination. By the grace of God, no one and nothing will deter us. The new Chiefdoms and Emirates are here to stay.”
In his acceptance speech, the Kumu I of Gombi, HRM Aggrey Bechour Ali, said the creation of the Gombi Chiefdom is a testament to Governor Fintiri's resilience in granting the request of his subjects. He disclosed that the people of Gombi Chiefdom are united in spirit to foster peace and progress in their land.
Noting the responsibilities bestowed upon him, he solemnly promised to serve the people according to the oath of office and allegiance he has taken.
He assured that he would work closely with security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property, as well as collaborate with government agencies and non-governmental organizations to bring youth and women empowerment programs to his chiefdom.
HRM Aggrey Bechour Ali solicited the support of the people of his chiefdom to enable him to succeed in delivering on the mandate given to him.
He thanked the Governor and the legislative arm for actualizing their demand for the establishment of the Gombi Chiefdom.
The Chairman of Gombi Local Government Area, Hon. Mark Ishaya, said Governor Fintiri's resolve on chiefdom and emirate creations is a gesture of unparalleled responsiveness to the demand of his people, and the staff of office given to the Kumu I of Gombi signifies the respect the Governor has for the cultural heritage of the people.
Adding that the creation of the Gombi Chiefdom allows the people to have control of their heritage and inspires local governance, he assured that his council will uphold the value of the traditional institution.
The Chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Emirs in Adamawa State, Lamido Adamawa Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, represented by the Galadima Adamawa Alh. Mustapha Aminu, congratulated the Kumu I of Gombi for ascending to the throne of Third Class status and enjoined him to be just to his people. He described Governor Fintiri's reign as progressive.
The Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Prof. David Jatau, thanked Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for granting them a staff of office of Third Class status, saying it has liberated them and given them a sense of belonging.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Ibrahim Welye, on behalf of the Lunguda community neighboring Gombi LG, said the Lunguda people are joyous with the creation of the Gombi Chiefdom. He admonished the royal father to rule accordingly.
Oath of office and allegiance was administered on the Kumu Gombi I HRM Aggrey Bechour Ali by the Chief Judge of Adamawa State Hon Justice Hapsat Abdulrahaman.