In a significant move to foster statewide harmony, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri convened political, religious, and community figures for the 2025 Unity and Peace Dinner. The gathering took place on Sunday at the Government House in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State.
A Platform for Reflection and Cohesion
The dinner, now in its third year, has become a cornerstone of the state's end-of-year activities. Barrister Auwal Tukur, the Secretary to the State Government and chairman of the event's organising committee, emphasised its role as a forum for collective reflection on governance and social unity. He described the initiative as an evolving tradition designed to strengthen bonds within Adamawa's diverse society.
Tukur highlighted that the timing of the dinner allowed for a review of the administration's accomplishments throughout 2025. He praised Governor Fintiri's leadership, crediting it with elevating Adamawa's national profile and driving visible progress across multiple sectors. He characterised the year as a period of transformative growth, achieved through inclusive policies and steady governance.
Cultural Showcase and Symbolic Gestures
The evening was enlivened by vibrant musical performances, cultural dances, and artistic displays representing communities from across Adamawa and neighbouring regions. The rich tapestry of performances drew enthusiastic applause from the assembled guests, which included senior government officials, labour leaders, and various stakeholders.
The event reached its symbolic climax with the cutting of the Peace and Unity cake. Governor Fintiri was joined in this act by the First Lady, Hajiya Lami Fintiri, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and other dignitaries. This gesture underscored the core message of the gathering: a shared commitment to dialogue and collaboration as the foundation for lasting peace and development.
Context of Broader Governance
This dinner for unity aligns with other recent administrative actions by the Fintiri-led government. Earlier, the governor presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged the 'Budget of Sustainable Growth and Economic Renewal,' to the state assembly. Furthermore, the State Executive Council recently approved N11.4 billion for critical projects in education, health, water, and power sectors, reflecting a continued focus on infrastructure and living standards.
Organisers affirmed that the annual Unity and Peace Dinner has solidified its position as a vital platform for promoting social cohesion, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose among Adamawa's leadership and people.
