Security Management: The Adamawa Model

When the Department of State Services (DSS) successfully rescued two Catholic priests kidnapped in Numan, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State commended the DSS for its gallant efforts, particularly for securing the release of the victims without ransom. This success, and many others achieved by various security agencies, did not occur in isolation. The […]

When the Department of State Services (DSS) successfully rescued two Catholic priests kidnapped in Numan, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State commended the DSS for its gallant efforts, particularly for securing the release of the victims without ransom.

This success, and many others achieved by various security agencies, did not occur in isolation. The Fintiri administration has adopted a deliberate and structured approach to tackling insecurity, anchored on three key strategies.

First, the government focused on areas affected by Boko Haram’s senseless insurgency. It designed and implemented practical, post-conflict programmes and projects with a clear, comprehensive strategy. These initiatives accelerated the healing process and facilitated the restoration of basic infrastructure and local economies—ultimately returning affected communities to their peaceful and productive pre-war conditions.

A vivid example is the revival of economic and educational activity in townships like Mubi, Michika, Hong and Madagali etc

Second, following the restoration of vital infrastructure and the reintegration of displaced populations, the administration embarked on the rapid rehabilitation of agricultural land, places of worship, healthcare centres, bridges, and schools. This was complemented by the creation of meaningful employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women, through targeted empowerment initiatives.

In contrast to many other states, where development efforts have heavily favoured urban centres at the expense of rural communities (thus widening inequality and fueling insecurity), the Fintiri-led government chose a more inclusive path. It struck a balance between urban development and rural needs. While the state capital, Yola, is being transformed into a modern, functional city that serves all segments of society, rural local governments are also receiving much-needed investment in agriculture, electricity, healthcare, and human development.

A key part of the administration’s strategy has been linking infrastructure development with youth employment to prevent crime. For instance, when the Shila Boys, a notorious youth gang, resurfaced, the government responded with a dual approach: enforcement alongside empowerment. Through the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency (PAWECA) and the Adamawa State Social Support Programme (ADSSSP), young people were given access to cash grants, loans, and skills training.

Most recently, the government launched the Technical Skills Acquisition and Trade Programme, which is being implemented across 10 revitalised Skills Acquisition Centres in the state. The programme is structured as follows:

• Short-term: 3 months
• Intermediate: 6 months
• Advanced: 1 year

All participants receive a monthly stipend of ₦10,000.

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), community security seeks to operationalise human security, human development, and state-building at the local level. This is the very principle the Fintiri administration applied in managing tensions arising from farmer-herder conflicts.

While perfect security is theoretically unattainable, since no individual or state can be absolutely safe or entirely vulnerable, the Fintiri model demonstrates how a strategic blend of community engagement, grassroots dialogue, and the provision of essential services can dramatically improve security outcomes.

The Adamawa experience shows that when people’s needs are met, and they feel seen and supported, peace and stability follow. The Fintiri model of internal security management is working, and it offers a blueprint for other states in the Northeast and beyond to consider.