Adamawa State Expands Traditional Leadership with Creation of Seven New Chiefdoms
By Raymond Enoch
In a significant move to enhance traditional governance and strengthen local administration, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has announced the creation of seven new emirates and chiefdoms. This development, formalized through the Adamawa State Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law 2024, aims to reposition the traditional institution to play a more effective role in promoting peace, security, and development within the state.
The newly established entities include:
Hoba Chiefdom: Headquarters in Hong; Second-class status.
Madagali Chiefdom: Headquarters in Gulak; Second-class status.
Michika Chiefdom: Headquarters in Michika; Second-class status.
Fufore Emirate: Headquarters in Fufore; Second-class status.
Gombi Chiefdom: Headquarters in Gombi; Third-class status.
Yungur Chiefdom: Headquarters in Dumne; Third-class status.
Maiha Emirate: Headquarters in Maiha; Third-class status.
This initiative reduces the jurisdiction of the Lamido of Adamawa, Mustapha Barkindo, from eight to four local government areas—Yola South, Yola North, Girei, and Hong. Similarly, the Emir of Mubi, Abubakar Isa-Ahmadu, now presides over two local government areas—Mubi North and Mubi South—down from five.
Governor Fintiri emphasized that the creation of these new emirates and chiefdoms is designed to provide more centers for dispute resolution, improve governance in previously ungoverned spaces, and strengthen social cohesion. He stated, “This piece of legislation is expected to reposition the traditional institution and embolden it to smartly play better roles in our affairs.”
The state House of Assembly passed the bill on December 10, 2024, and Governor Fintiri assented to it on December 16. The new structure has been gazetted and is now part of the state’s statutory framework.
This development follows the governor’s earlier approval of 83 new districts within the state, reflecting a comprehensive approach to decentralizing governance and bringing administration closer to the people.
The creation of these new emirates and chiefdoms is expected to enhance the capacity of traditional institutions in Adamawa State, fostering an environment conducive to peace, security, and development.
