The Fintiri Magic

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s approach to development stands in stark contrast to the conventional methods familiar to some Nigerians—methods often characterized by the mere distribution of money, political appointments, superficial initiatives, and grand displays of fanfare. Fintiri’s philosophy is rooted in addressing the specific needs and aspirations of each community and its people . His […]

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s approach to development stands in stark contrast to the conventional methods familiar to some Nigerians—methods often characterized by the mere distribution of money, political appointments, superficial initiatives, and grand displays of fanfare.

Fintiri’s philosophy is rooted in addressing the specific needs and aspirations of each community and its people . His administration adopts a comprehensive strategy, targeting every sector of the economy through the intelligent allocation of resources and sound decisions . This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also anticipates future demands, all while respecting the unique cultural and geographical complexities of Adamawa State.

When it comes to developmental projects and programs, the Fintiri administration employs a balanced methodology, combining reductionist precision with a holistic vision. Critics who question the construction of the 7 flyovers, underpasses, and superhighways in Yola, the state capital, fail to grasp the forward-thinking nature of such projects. If Governor Fintiri had sought to build these structures without justification, he could have chosen locations like Madagali, Mubi, or Shelleng, Numan or any location of his choice. Instead, he strategically placed them in Jimeta, where they are most needed, while simultaneously providing the rest of the 20 local government areas with essential infrastructure such as cottage hospitals, solar-powered water treatment plants, electricity, state-of-the-art models schools, free WAEC and NECO registration, youth employment programs, enhanced security, agricultural support programs, afforestation programs, community engagements and inclusive governance.

The Fintiri administration’s vision of development is all-encompassing. It intervenes in every social economic sector, tailoring its efforts to the specific needs and desires of communities, local governments, and senatorial districts. For instance, in local government areas like Fofure, Hong, Gombi, Ganye, Demsa and Toungo and the rest of the Agric-zones in the state , where agriculture and livestock are paramount, Fintiri not only delivered targeted support but also introduced free education, modern model and mega schools, cottage hospitals, scholarships, connections to the national grid, subsidized transportation, and solutions to farmer-herder conflicts and access roads including women empowerment.

In Jimeta and Yola, where residents envision a thriving, modern, beautiful and commercial capital, Fintiri has transformed this vision into reality. New modern markets, 1000 housing units along the new superhighway, rehabilitation of the water treatment plant, upgrade of the Yola specialists, free dialysis, improved security, youth empowerment initiatives, and inclusive governance have become hallmarks of his administration.

While politicians often seek patronage, Fintiri has prioritized transparency, the inclusion of women and youth in leadership, use of Information Technology, and a genuine commitment to listening to the voices of the people including openness in governance.

In Fintiri’s approach, communities receive not only what they want but also what they truly need. Communities yearning for new districts, roads, and greater accessibility have seen their aspirations fulfilled. Fintiri has gone a step further by restoring their historical identity and culture through the creation of chiefdoms and emirates, a move that has reconnected people with their heritage. Something that has brought not only happiness and joy but a feel of accomplishment.

Yet, even as Adamawa experiences unprecedented progress and growth , a small faction of the opposition continues to criticize Governor Fintiri’s remarkable achievements, such as the construction of seven flyovers and underpasses in record time. Their argument—that Yola, the state capital, does not need such infrastructure—is not only unfounded but also ironic. Ironically, these are the same people who take selfies on the flyovers and underpasses of Abuja, which were built when the city had neither significant human presence nor buildings.

While other states grapple with the absence of development, a handful in Adamawa are lamenting the “overdevelopment” under the Fintiri administration. Such criticism only underscores the transformative impact of his leadership—a leadership that dares to dream big and deliver even bigger.