My last visit to Adamawa State was back in 2018, when I was invited by the late Alhaji Ahmed Joda-an esteemed elder statesman, former permanent secretary, and dedicated farmer who devoted much of his later life to agriculture and community development.
During that trip, Joda graciously welcomed two colleagues and me to his home in Yola, where we enjoyed a delightful meal before he took us on an insightful tour of his expansive farm near Fufore, approximately 18 kilometres from the city. The experience was both inspiring and rejuvenating.
Urban Renewal
Yet, the Yola I encountered on my recent visit was markedly different from the one I saw six years ago. The city has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. From the airport to downtown, I noticed extensive infrastructural enhancements, including six new flyovers and underpasses that have significantly improved both the city’s appearance and its connectivity.
These impressive developments stem from the visionary leadership of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. Recognizing Adamawa’s strategic location near international borders and its vast agricultural resources, he has prioritized infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and regional integration.
When questioned about the focus on infrastructure, Governor Fintiri clarified that this emphasis does not come at the expense of other critical sectors. Instead, it forms a core part of his administration’s comprehensive 8-point agenda aimed at unlocking the state’s full potential and attracting investors.
“Adamawa has often been labeled a civil service state. But why should that be the case when we border multiple countries, boast a population exceeding five million, possess fertile agricultural land, and maintain a thriving livestock industry?” he challenged.
Modern infrastructure is indispensable for a state that serves as a commercial crossroads for traders from Nigeria and neighbouring countries such as Cameroon, Niger, and Chad. Consequently, Governor Fintiri has invested heavily in world-class road networks that connect rural communities to local government centres, facilitating trade and mobility.
“We have constructed over 360 kilometres of roads linking rural areas to urban markets. This enables farmers to transport their goods efficiently and makes the state more appealing to investors and residents alike. This infrastructure drive is the foundation for economic expansion,” Fintiri explained.
While some critics argue that the focus on bridges and flyovers in cities with relatively low traffic is misplaced, preferring investments in human capital, even detractors acknowledge the tangible benefits of these projects. The improved roads have opened up rural areas, eased the flow of agricultural produce, and stimulated local economies.
Investing in People and Agriculture
Governor Fintiri’s vision extends well beyond physical infrastructure. His administration is deeply committed to nurturing human capital. Initiatives include providing soft loans and incentives to small and micro enterprises, as well as sponsoring hundreds of students to pursue higher education abroad in fields such as medicine, engineering, and information technology-disciplines aligned with the state’s developmental priorities.
Adamawa is preparing to send another cohort of 320 students overseas to countries like Australia and Canada for postgraduate studies in ICT and other vital sectors.
Understanding the critical role of agriculture in food security and economic growth, the government has also intensified efforts in this sector. “Beyond the Ministry of Agriculture, we have established a food security committee to advise on strategies to boost production for local consumption and export,” the governor noted.
Currently, the state is cultivating 300 hectares of farmland across seven pilot local government areas, with each LGA allocating one hectare specifically for youth empowerment.
Given Adamawa’s strength in cattle rearing, livestock development is another priority. The government is safeguarding and expanding grazing reserves to provide herders with ample space, thereby minimizing conflicts between farmers and pastoralists.
“Most grazing reserves remain intact, and we have created new ones to facilitate herders’ movements. This approach has significantly reduced tensions. Additionally, we are enhancing these reserves by planting nutritious grasses to improve livestock health,” Fintiri added.
With approximately 32 cattle markets equipped with modern facilities, the administration aims to position Adamawa as Nigeria’s premier cattle hub, supplying meat to major cities like Lagos. The state is also courting foreign investors, engaging with partners from Egypt and Malaysia to establish two abattoirs capable of processing 3,000 cattle daily.
Education remains a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda. The number of out-of-school children has dropped dramatically from around 500,000 to fewer than 100,000. “It is unacceptable for a state with a rich history of Western education in northern Nigeria to have so many children out of school,” the governor asserted.
Upon taking office, Fintiri discovered that previous administrations had neglected to access Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) funds for five years. By fulfilling the required counterpart funding, his government unlocked these resources, enabling the construction and renovation of 5,000 classrooms. Coupled with policies that effectively make education free, these efforts have brought thousands of children back into the classroom.
The administration also identified legacy schools across the state, allocating significant funds for their refurbishment and equipping. To address teacher shortages, 2,000 educators were recruited.
Fintiri’s vision further includes the establishment of Model Schools-one in each local government area-designed to provide continuous education from crèche through junior secondary levels. Additionally, three large-scale schools are under construction, one in each senatorial district. Notably, the Science and Technical College will be dedicated exclusively to girls, promoting female participation in STEM fields.
“To support our girls, we launched a scholarship program for those with at least nine credits. The program covers tuition, meals, accommodation, and other needs. It has been running for four years, and we assist with university admissions for qualified candidates,” he explained.
Governor Fintiri’s commitment is clear: “We came prepared to govern and uplift our state and people. We have adhered strictly to our plans.” His journey to leadership is itself a testament to resilience and determination.
Initially elected as a member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly representing Gulak local government, Fintiri was unexpectedly chosen as Speaker despite opposition from powerful interests, including then-Governor Murtala Nyako. The government even locked the Assembly chamber for over a month to prevent legislative sessions. Yet, Fintiri prevailed and later served twice as acting Governor following Nyako’s removal in 2014-first for 12 days, then for 86 days.
He was elected governor in 2019 and secured re-election in 2023, overcoming significant challenges. It is fitting that a leader who rose through such trials is now focused on leaving a lasting legacy. Governor Fintiri is fulfilling that role admirably.
Currently serving his second and final term, and chairing the PDP’s national elective convention committee, Fintiri is well-positioned for a potential national role, given his effective governance of a state marked by complex identity politics similar to those across Nigeria.
