From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has called on Nigerians to use the 65th Independence Anniversary to reflect and renew their commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
Fintiri made the appeal at the Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola, during the Independence Day celebration, where he noted that Nigeria’s journey since 1960 has been marked by civil war, poverty, and insecurity, but continues to endure because of the resilience of its people.
He stressed that true independence should go beyond survival to improving the lives of ordinary citizens, highlighting his administration’s achievements in job creation and revenue growth. The governor disclosed that 12,000 qualified candidates are currently undergoing recruitment into the state civil service, with 5,000 for ministries and agencies, 5,000 for post-primary education, and 2,000 for healthcare.
He also revealed that the state’s internally generated revenue has grown from ₦6.2 billion in 2019 to ₦16.2 billion in five years. “Unity, discipline, and hard work remain essential ingredients for transforming independence into meaningful development,” he said.
At the event, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, James Iliya, reminded citizens that Independence Day is not just for celebration but also for reflection on the country’s progress. He said the state government had reduced inherited debts, boosted revenue, and invested in education, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
Similarly, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Adamawa State, Richard Bala Dangari, described the anniversary as a reminder of freedom from colonial rule and the sacrifices of the founding fathers. He urged citizens to embrace unity, patriotism, and civic responsibility, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength and progress.
In a related development to mark the anniversary, Governor Fintiri granted pardon to six inmates serving various prison sentences across correctional facilities in the state.
“Therefore, in the exercise of my prerogative of mercy as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and in line with the recommendations of the Adamawa State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, I have granted pardon to six persons who have served various jail terms and have significantly demonstrated good conduct over the years,” Fintiri announced.
Those discharged with immediate effect include: Wamari Godwin and Abraham Marksunil from Medium Security Custodial Centre, Mubi; David Paul from Medium Security Custodial Centre, Numan; Ibrahim Adamu from Satellite Custodial Facility, Maiha; Usman Inuwa from Medium Security Custodial Centre, Yola New; and Sani Yahaya from Satellite Custodial Facility, Ganye.