By Muh'd Shafi'u Saleh Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has affirmed that the Chiefdom of Madagali, along ...
By Muh'd Shafi'u Saleh
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has affirmed that the Chiefdom of Madagali, along with other Emirates and Chiefdoms in the state, has come to stay.
The Governor made this declaration during the coronation ceremony of the Emir of Madagali, Dr. Ali Danburam, held on Wednesday in Gulak, the headquarters of Madagali Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Governor Fintiri stated: "Like all the Emirates and Chiefdoms, Madagali Chiefdom has come to stay. By the grace of God and the will of our people, nothing and no one will tamper with this heritage.
This isn’t a mere historical nod; it is a transformative act that challenges the status quo, fosters inclusivity, and prioritizes historical accuracy.
Today, as we witness the coronation of Dr. Ali Danburam as Ptil Madagali, we are reminded of the significance of traditional leadership in uniting and guiding our people. The Ptil Madagali stool is not just a title; it is a sacred responsibility, a bridge between our past and our future, and a symbol of our identity as a people."
Governor Fintiri reflected on the devastating impact of Boko Haram’s insurgency in Madagali and other parts of Adamawa State, describing the extreme conditions faced by the local population.
"Not too long ago, this land—our land—was nearly brought to ruin.
Madagali, like many other parts of our dear state, was under siege by Boko Haram, a terror that sought to erase our way of life, destroy our communities, and shatter the very essence of our existence.
We saw our homes burnt, our markets deserted, our places of worship violated, and our loved ones either killed or taken from us. Families were displaced, schools shut down, and life as we knew it seemed to hang by a thread.
But Madagali is a land of warriors. We are a people whose spirits cannot be broken, whose traditions cannot be erased, and whose resilience cannot be defeated. Even in our darkest hour, we refused to be defined by fear."
The Governor also expressed deep personal ties to Madagali, referring to the town as his birthplace and source of pride:
"This is Madagali—my root and my pride. Whatever I am today and whatever I do for Adamawa State and Nigeria is all thanks to this modest community where it all began."
He praised the newly crowned Ptil Madagali, Dr. Ali Danburam, describing him as a leader of great pedigree, vast social networks, and a deep commitment to community service.
Governor Fintiri highlighted his administration’s efforts in restoring peace and rebuilding communities that were devastated by the insurgency: "When I assumed office as Governor, I made a solemn commitment to restore security, dignity, and hope to our people.
Together, we fought back, stood firm, and prevailed. Through strong leadership, collaboration with security forces, and the unwavering spirit of our people, we drove out those who sought to destroy us. We restored peace, rebuilt our communities, reopened our schools, and ensured that our people who had been scattered across IDP camps could return home and begin a new."
The Governor expressed optimism about Madagali's future, highlighting its vast resources, fertile land, and strategic location. He urged the new Ptil Madagali to revive traditional industries that once defined the area's creativity and economy:
"As the government strives to maintain peace and security, I urge His Majesty to lead the revival of pottery, iron smithing, garment making (Migidi and Gumbara), animal fattening, and artisanship—industries that once showcased the creativity of the Madagali people.
The Sukur UNESCO World Heritage Site and other latent resources also remain key avenues for growth and economic sustainability."
Governor Fintiri called on all sons and daughters of Madagali, both at home and in the diaspora, to support the new Ptil and uphold the values of unity, peace, and progress: "A community can only flourish when its people stand together, speak with one voice, and work towards a common goal. Your Royal Highness, with this coronation, you are to reign over all the ethnic identities that dot Madagali Local Government—Margi, Matakam, Wula, Wagga, Mafa, Vengo, Higgi, Fulani, Kanuri, and others.
You have a duty to weave this diversity into strength; prioritize security, justice, fairness, and economic growth. Guide our youth away from crime, drugs, and other vices. Work with the government to protect and project the Chiefdom. I am confident that His Majesty possesses the requisite steel and fire to make this happen.
You are stepping into a role that carries the hopes and aspirations of an entire people. Lead with wisdom, rule with justice, and serve with compassion."
Concluding his remarks, Governor Fintiri said: "It is my honor to invite His Royal Highness, Dr. Ali Danburam, to receive his royal staff of office and henceforth reign as the Ptil Madagali and paramount ruler of Madagali Local Government Area in Adamawa State."
No comments