By Emmanuel Kwada
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has announced the release of N3 billion to clear gratuities owed to local government retirees in Adamawa State. The announcement was made on Friday, May 30, 2025, during the Bwatiye 2025 International Cultural Festival and Development Foundation Fundraising held at Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola.

This follows the Governor’s pledge, less than 24 hours earlier, to disburse N5 billion to settle gratuities for state-level retirees during a meeting with state labor leaders. Governor Fintiri stated that the N3 billion for local government retirees would be disbursed next month, underscoring his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of retirees across the state.
Speaking at the festival themed “Culture and Development,” Governor Fintiri congratulated the Bwatiye nation for successfully hosting the event, describing it as a timely initiative to foster unity and cultural pride among the Bwatiye people.
Dr. Agbu Kefas, Chairman of the occasion, donated N15 million to the fundraising effort, emphasizing the shared cultural ties between Adamawa and Taraba States
He expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering support over the past six years and reaffirmed his dedication to promoting peace and unity throughout Adamawa State.
The event, attended by government officials, politicians, technocrats, traditional rulers, and prominent individuals from Adamawa and neighboring states and countries, was a vibrant celebration of Bwatiye culture. Dr. Agbu Kefas, Chairman of the occasion, donated N15 million to the fundraising effort, emphasizing the shared cultural ties between Adamawa and Taraba States, which he described as “twin sisters.”
The event highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Bwatiye community while reinforcing the importance of collective efforts for progress
Chief James Iliya, President of the Pena Da Bwatiye Development Association Worldwide, noted that the festival was organized to celebrate the unity of the Bwatiye people and promote shared prosperity and development. The event highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Bwatiye community while reinforcing the importance of collective efforts for progress.
Governor Fintiri’s announcements and the success of the cultural festival underscore ongoing efforts to address retirees’ welfare and promote unity and development in Adamawa State.