As Nigerians celebrate 65 years of independence, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has granted amnesty to six prisoners serving various sentences. Speaking at the march-past ceremony by the police and other paramilitary organisations at Ribadu Square, Governor Fintiri reflected on Nigeria’s journey since 1960. “Nigeria stands at the proud threshold of sixty-five years of independence, a moment not just for celebration, but for deep reflection. On 1 October 1960, the chains of colonial rule were broken, and our people took their destiny into their own hands. That day was filled with promises—the dream of a Nigeria united in vision, rich in justice, and rising in prosperity,” he said. He also acknowledged the challenges the nation has faced over the decades. “Sixty-five years later, we must ask ourselves with courage and honesty how far we have travelled on that journey. As a nation, we have walked through fire, weathered civil war, endured the shadows of dictatorship, and stood firm through waves of poverty and insecurity. Yet, we endured, not by luck, but by the unwavering spirit of our people. Still, survival is not success; independence without progress is only symbolic. True freedom is measured by how it transforms everyday lives.” Governor Fintiri highlighted Adamawa State’s efforts to turn independence into tangible improvements. “In Adamawa, independence means a child in Michika learning under a proper roof, not a crumbling structure. It means a farmer in Demsa reaching the market safely. It means a mother in Guyuk accessing healthcare nearby, and youth in Yola finding hope through opportunity, not hopelessness through crime.” He detailed the state’s achievements, including rebuilding classrooms, revitalising healthcare, connecting communities with roads and bridges, and prioritising peace as a foundation for growth. “Are we perfect? No,” he admitted. The Governor further announced that 12,000 qualified candidates are undergoing recruitment into the Adamawa State Civil Service, covering 5,000 positions in MDAs, 5,000 in post-primary education, and 2,000 in the health sector. “This is not just a job drive; it is an investment in efficiency, public service, and the future of our youth,” he said. Fintiri noted the state’s fiscal progress, with internally generated revenue rising to ₦16.2 billion in five years, attributing it to fiscal discipline, digital reforms, and accountability. “Nigeria’s freedom demands responsibility. Governance must be anchored in justice, fairness, and transparency. Citizens must stand on pillars of discipline, truth, and hard work,” he added. He also emphasized the importance of unity in diversity. “Our greatest treasure is our unity. In Adamawa, we are a vibrant mosaic of cultures, languages, and faiths. That diversity must never be our weakness; it must be our strength. Like rivers flowing into one mighty stream, our differences must flow into one shared destiny.” Governor Fintiri concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment: “We will stay the course, expanding infrastructure, deepening healthcare, empowering education, and securing every corner of our state. We will lead with justice and humility, always mindful that power is not privilege, but a sacred trust before God and humanity.”
