My Margi values define my character, success — Gov Fintiri

The Margi Nation worldwide was all eyes as Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa alongside all the traditional rulers of Margi extraction gathered on Saturday in Yola to unveil the new Margi national attire.

The event, attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, governors and representatives of neighbouring ethnic nationalities, served as both a cultural celebration and an opportunity for the governor to reflect on his journey, identity and stewardship.

In their various goodwill messages, governors of Bauchi, Oyo , Taraba and Borno states commended Governor Finitri for bringing Margi people worldwide together to celebrate culture and traditions.

The occasion also showcased the rich cultural heritage of Margi people and the popular “Margi Special “was a grand success.

‎Governor Fintiri, in his address, expressed gratitude to God and reaffirming his deep-rooted pride in his Margi ancestry.

He described the Margi people “as a community shaped by courage, hard work and resilience”, he said continue to define his character and leadership style and successes.

‎The governor recounted; “I began his public service journey as a son of the Margi land, I acknowledge my community’s unflinching support and encouragement over the years”.

He emphasised that the confidence his people placed in him has helped him confront challenges with faith and determination.
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‎ Reflecting on the condition of Adamawa State when he assumed office in 2019, Fintiri said the state was grappling with insecurity, dilapidated schools, weak healthcare structures and deteriorating infrastructure.

“Our administration understood early that restoring peace was the first step toward rebuilding society”.

And to achieve this noble goal, “the government strengthened security not only through reinforcement but by rebuilding trust between leaders and citizens. Traditional rulers were re-engaged and empowered”, as a society that forgets its elders forgets its soul.”
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‎The governor stated that today Adamawa stands as one of the most peaceful states in the North-East, a peace he attributed to cooperation, justice and collective resilience.
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‎On development, Fintiri highlighted major investments in infrastructure, stating that the roads, bridges and urban renewal projects across the state were not undertaken for prestige but to ease the lives of citizens and restore public confidence. He described infrastructure as “hope made visible.”
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‎On education, he recalled his own humble beginnings and stressed that ignorance is costly. This, he said, informed his administration’s declaration of free and compulsory education, including payment of WAEC and NECO fees for all students.

“The reintroduction of bursaries, scholarships and overseas studies, as well as the establishment of Model Schools, were measures targeted at building a future anchored on knowledge,” he said.
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‎Similarly, the governor outlined extensive reforms in the healthcare sector, including the construction and renovation of facilities, recruitment of health professionals, procurement of modern equipment and the establishment of an ultra-modern laboratory at the State Specialist Hospital, which now offers free dialysis and diagnostic services.
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‎Fintiri also highlighted empowerment programmes for youth and women, noting that no society thrives when its young people are idle and its women excluded.

Employment opportunities, business grants and vocational training, he said, are all part of the government’s strategy to build a self-reliant population.
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‎He further said that his government has put strong reforms within the civil service, including sanitising payrolls, rewarding merit and restoring dignity to public service.

‎The event also saw the unveiling of a new Margi national attire, which the governor described as a symbol of identity, pride and continuity with the traditions of ancestors who once adorned garments such as pizhi, dzar and gumbara. He encouraged Margi people everywhere to wear the new attire with honour.