“Yungur is home to me”, Dr Girei hails Fintiri’s ‘gift’ of yungur chiefdom, pledges govt support

‎“Yungur is Home to Me“, Dr Girei Hails Fintiri’s ‘Gift’ of Yungur Chiefdom, Pledges Govt Support

By Tom Garba,Yola

‎The Yungur Chiefdom in Song Local Government Area of Adamawa State recently celebrated its one-year anniversary with a vibrant ceremony that highlighted cultural pride, community unity, and strong endorsements for state leadership.

‎The event, held at the chiefdom’s palace, drew traditional rulers, elders, youth and women groups, and residents from neighboring areas, featuring cultural performances, prayers for peace, and messages of goodwill.

‎Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, a senior representative of the Adamawa Emirate Council and a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape, delivered a keynote address that resonated deeply with attendees.

‎He praised Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for creating additional chiefdoms and kingdoms, including Yungur, calling the policy a “historic intervention” that has fostered unity, peace, and inclusion across diverse communities.

‎Dr. Girei described the establishment of the Yungur Chiefdom as one of the “greatest gifts” bestowed upon the people, bringing governance closer to the grassroots and restoring a sense of identity and belonging.

‎ In a personal touch that underscored his emotional connection, he declared, “Yungur is Home to Me,” citing his parents’ ancestral ties and long-standing relationship with the community. This statement amplified his deep-rooted affinity for the area, positioning him as someone intimately invested in its progress.

Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei emphasized that his deep-rooted affinity and sense of belonging extend far beyond Girei Local Government Area, his paternal homeland, encompassing broader maternal ties across Adamawa State.

He highlighted his maternal linkages to the Maiha Emirate, along with strong personal connections to the Kilba and Gombi communities, among others.

These familial and cultural bonds, according to Dr. Girei, have cultivated enduring relationships and fostered seamless cooperation, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to regional development and champion unity among the state’s diverse ethnic groups.

‎Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Girei acknowledged his former teacher, Mrs. Rejoice, for instilling values of culture, unity, and leadership that continue to guide him. He also highlighted his longstanding friendship and schoolmate bond with Governor Fintiri, which he said has enhanced cooperation in managing traditional affairs.

This revelation underscores his inclusive vision for Adamawa, positioning him as a bridge-builder capable of uniting various communities in pursuit of shared progress and harmony.

‎Emphasizing the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture, Dr. Girei stressed that sustainable peace and development depend on their active involvement.

‎He assured the Yungur traditional council of the state government’s ongoing support and protection, urging leaders to prioritize peace, unity, and community advancement. He commended the people for their cooperation, crediting it for the area’s peaceful coexistence.

‎While the anniversary focused on celebrating one year of the chiefdom’s achievements, Dr. Girei’s presence and remarks fueled speculation about his broader ambitions.

‎As a former commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Higher Education, Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board, and current Director of Research and Development at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Dr. Girei has built a reputation for impactful service in education and governance.

‎His gubernatorial aspiration for the 2027 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained significant momentum in recent months.

‎Grassroots movements, youth groups, and APC stakeholders across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas have endorsed him, with rallies and calls describing him as a visionary leader capable of transforming the state into a secure, educated, healthy, and economically vibrant entity.

‎Supporters highlight his track record of employment creation, educational reforms, and commitment to inclusive development, often framing him as the APC’s strongest contender to reclaim the governorship.

‎Dr. Girei has repeatedly expressed sincerity in responding to widespread calls to contest, vowing to lead with passion, leave an “unforgettable legacy,” and model servant leadership.

‎His appearance at the Yungur event, where he hyped grassroots empowerment through traditional institutions, aligns with his “Adamawa Transformation Mission,” reinforcing his image as a unifier with personal stakes in the state’s diverse communities.

‎The celebration concluded on a high note, with renewed optimism for continued progress in Yungur and broader implications for Adamawa’s political future as figures like Dr. Girei continue to engage communities ahead of 2027.