Ganye Local Government Area of Adamawa State was abuzz with excitement on Saturday as drummers, traditional horse riders, and dancers from various neighbouring local government areas converged at the Gangwari’s palace to celebrate His Royal Highness, Alhaji Umaru Adamu Sanda, on his 25th anniversary on the throne.
The air vibrated with the rhythmic pulse of bata drums, punctuated by the majestic clip-clop of hooves as elegantly adorned horsemen paraded through the streets.
Dancers, clad in vibrant traditional attire, moved with infectious energy, their joyous expressions reflecting the widespread reverence for a monarch who has guided his people for a quarter-century.
This Silver Jubilee celebration drew a distinguished array of guests, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Minister of State for Regional Development Uba Maigari; Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri; Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas; and General T.Y. Danjuma and other crème de la creme whose presence added significant gravitas to the momentous occasion.
The palace grounds, transformed into a kaleidoscopic spectacle, buzzed with anticipation as traditional chiefs, community leaders, and citizens mingled, eagerly awaiting the formal proceedings.
The event was not merely a ceremonial observance but a vibrant cultural tapestry, illustrating the deep roots of traditional leadership and community solidarity in Adamawa State.
At the heart of the celebration, the royal father, Alhaji Sanda delivered a compelling address that resonated with urgency and foresight.
He made a strong plea to the federal government for the immediate establishment of a military base within the Ganye area.
This action, he explained, is not just a request but a vital measure for enhancing security and preventing criminal elements from asserting control over the region.
His voice carried the weight of a leader deeply concerned for his people’s safety, as he pointed to the chiefdom’s strategic position along the international border with Cameroon and its abundant natural resources as primary reasons for the pressing need for improved security measures.
“We call on the federal government to urgently establish a military base in the area to prevent our region from being hijacked by criminals,” he declared, as his words echoing across the assembled crowd.
Beyond security, the Gangwari Ganye also urged the federal government to accelerate the completion of the long-abandoned Jada Dam project.
He painted a picture of the venture’s immense potential, believing it holds significant economic promise for both the local community and the entire nation, envisioning improved agricultural yields and enhanced economic opportunities.
Furthermore, he emphasised the pivotal role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and security at the grassroots level.
He passionately advocated their greater empowerment and involvement in governance, moving beyond their current advisory capacities to actively participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their communities.
The celebratory atmosphere was further enriched by speeches from high-ranking dignitaries who lauded Gangwari’s remarkable period of leadership.
It’s a celebration of cultural pride – VP Shettima
The Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, representing Vice President Shettima, spoke with profound respect, commending the Gangwari’s two-and-a-half decades of leadership.
He characterised it as “not merely a celebration of longevity in office, a celebration of leadership, cultural pride, and enduring commitment to the people of Ganye Kingdom and the people of Adamawa State, and indeed, the Chamba nation as a whole.”
Maigari, who shares Chamba heritage, spoke of the deep historical ties and the unifying influence of the traditional stool.
“Your 25-year reign has been very, very instrumental to the development and unity of Chamba Land,” he added, highlighting the tangible progress witnessed under Gangwari’s watch.
He concluded by offering heartfelt prayers for the Gangwari’s continued well-being and extended life, saying, “Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala gives you another 70 years to add to your already 70 years alive,” a blessing that drew nods of agreement from the audience.
Governor Fintiri, in his address, radiated warmth and respect as he recognised the Gangwari Ganye’s purposeful service to his people.
The governor detailed the monarch’s role in upholding the chiefdom’s rich cultural heritage and promoting peace and unity across diverse communities.
“Your reign has been a beacon of stability and progress. You have been a father to all and a bridge-builder among diverse communities. Under your leadership, Ganye has witnessed improvements in education, agriculture, traditional governance, and community engagement,” Governor Fintiri stated, painting a comprehensive picture of the positive transformations.
He particularly praised Gangwari’s diligent efforts in supporting government initiatives, citing his crucial contributions in conflict resolution, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
TY Danjuma honoured
A truly significant and emotionally resonant moment during the celebration was the conferment of a chieftaincy title upon General T.Y. Danjuma, a towering figure in Nigerian history and a prominent statesman.
He was honoured as the “Gang Paan Ganye,” a title carrying deep cultural meaning, signifying “a protector or shield of Ganye.” The conferment was met with enthusiastic applause, acknowledging Danjuma’s enduring contributions and his connection to the region.
General Danjuma, in his acceptance speech, expressed his appreciation to Governor Fintiri and the royal highness.
He shared a personal revelation, explaining his initial reluctance to accept the title more than a decade ago.
He confessed to concerns about potential harassment, saying, “Personally, my fear was that he was taking a gamble offering a title to me by people that will use it as an excuse to harass me.”
However, with the passage of time and his advancing age and health considerations, Danjuma felt a profound pull to accept the honour.
“If I do not come to Ganye to accept this title, in my lifetime it may never happen,” he remarked, a sentiment that conveyed both humility and the weight of the moment.
He further spoke of his ancestral connections to the region, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage of his lineage.
He noted that his people, the Chamba, migrated through Cameroon and intermarried with the Jukkun, creating a rich blend of cultures.
He affirmed his dedication to fostering loyalty and cohesion among the people, his voice strong with conviction.
He urged the people of Adamawa State to “be loyal to your state, loyal to our traditional ruler, and be cohesive. And you must be loyal to Nigeria, our country,” a powerful call for national unity and regional harmony. Danjuma concluded his poignant address by offering fervent prayers for the royal highness’s prolonged life and prosperity, a gesture of profound respect and camaraderie.
Governor Fintiri, in his closing remarks, addressed the large gathering, encouraging the populace, particularly the younger generation, to find inspiration in the Gangwari’s integrity, humility, and commitment to his people.
He called upon them to view the anniversary not just as a day of festivities but as an occasion for renewed unity, mutual respect, and sustained cooperation for the advancement of Ganye and Adamawa State as a whole.
The governor reaffirmed the state government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Ganye Chiefdom’s progress.
He articulated a clear strategy, stating, “We will harness its abundant agricultural potential, mineral resources, and other assets for the benefit of our people and the nation.”
He also highlighted a significant educational development: the reclassification of the College of Agriculture, Ganye, into the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, emphasising its expanded purpose and broader academic scope. “I urge all sons and daughters of Ganye Chiefdom to support the government in our determination to make Ganye economically vibrant and socially cohesive,” Governor Fintiri concluded.
The Gangwari Ganye, Alhaji Sanda, who began his distinguished reign on April 7, 2000, following his unanimous election by kingmakers and subsequent appointment by the government, saw his chiefdom elevated from second-class to first-class status on December 4, 2004.
As the vibrant celebration drew to a close, the royal father conveyed his profound gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the memorable event, a fitting end to a day that not only honoured a leader but also celebrated the rich heritage and promising future of Ganye Chiefdom.
