Gov Fintiri to Be Honoured as ‘Midala Huba’ as Chiefdom Marks First Anniversary with Grand Celebrations, Cultural Showcase

By Emmanuel Kwada 

‎The Huba Chiefdom in Hong Local Government Area is preparing for an elaborate week-long celebration to mark the first anniversary of its restoration, a development that has brought renewed pride and unity to the Huba people, also widely known as the Kilba or Həba ethnic group.

‎This milestone traces back to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s decisive action in December 2024, when he created and restored the Huba Chiefdom along with six other chiefdoms and emirates, ending what community leaders have long described as over 120 years of historical marginalization and downgrading that began under colonial rule.

‎The Huba, once an autonomous entity with its own traditional authority, saw their status diminished during the colonial era, but the governor’s intervention has corrected this longstanding injustice.

‎Exactly one year ago, on February 14, 2025, Governor Fintiri personally presented the staff of office to His Royal Majesty, Barr. Alheri Bulus Nyako Ph.D, JP, installing him as the inaugural Tol Huba.

‎In a reciprocal gesture of deep appreciation during that historic ceremony, Tol Huba conferred upon the governor the prestigious traditional title of “Midala Huba,” signifying a warrior, hero, champion, and defender of the land.

‎The upcoming anniversary festivities, coordinated by the Huba Chiefdom Traditional Council, will feature a diverse array of events blending culture, sports, faith, and progress.

‎The celebrations kick off with the culmination of the ongoing Tol Alheri B. Nyako Annual Inter-District Football Tournament on Thursday, February 12, 2026, where victorious teams will receive trophies and medals amid cheers from the community.

‎On Friday, February 13, 2026, a special Juma’at thanksgiving prayer will take place at the Hong Central Mosque starting at 2:30 pm, offering a moment of spiritual reflection and gratitude.

‎The grand highlight unfolds on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Hong Mini Township Stadium from 10:00 am. Under the distinguished chairmanship of Dr. Boss Gida Mustapha, CFR former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (2017–2023)—the day will showcase vibrant cultural exhibitions, traditional displays of Huba heritage, and a mini Durbar procession at the old palace by 4:00 pm.

‎This central event will also serve as the occasion for the official honoring of Governor Fintiri with the “Midala Huba” title by HRM Tol Huba, reinforcing the community’s enduring gratitude for his role in reviving their traditional institution.

‎The celebrations wrap up on Sunday, February 15, 2026, with a special thanksgiving service at the Unity Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN No. 1) in Hong, bringing together people of diverse faiths in a spirit of harmony.

‎The anniversary provides an ideal platform to unveil the “Hong Local Government Development Plan,” outlining a vision for sustained growth, infrastructure, and unity.

‎Sons and daughters of Huba from across Nigeria and the diaspora, along with dignitaries and well-wishers, have expressed immense excitement for the occasion.

‎Secretary of the Huba Chiefdom Traditional Council, Alh. Abba A. Saleh, has warmly invited friends, neighbors of “Njir Huba,” and particularly media professionals to join in commemorating the chiefdom’s restoration, the coronation of Tol Alheri B. Nyako, and the special recognition of Governor Fintiri.

‎This first anniversary stands as a powerful testament to cultural revival, historical justice, gratitude, and the shared commitment to peace and development in Adamawa State.