By Emmanuel Kwada
In a momentous stride toward cultural rejuvenation and identity preservation, His Royal Majesty (Dr.) Kuruhaye Dishon Dansanda II, the revered Kwandi Nungura and Chairman of the Nungura Traditional Council, has spearheaded the official renaming of the Lunguda tribe to “Nungura” in Adamawa State.
This transformative decision, formally approved by His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, was unveiled amidst pomp and grandeur at the 2025 Sinmi-lalama cultural festival.
The event, attended by a distinguished array of dignitaries, marked a pivotal moment in the tribe’s history, underscoring a resolute commitment to reclaiming its authentic heritage and fostering unity.
The Sinmi-lalama festival, a vibrant celebration of Nungura traditions, provided the perfect backdrop for this historic pronouncement. Governor Fintiri, represented by his Deputy, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, joined traditional rulers, government officials, and community leaders to witness HRM Dr. Kuruhaye’s declaration that “Lunguda” has ceased to exist, with “Nungura” now the official name for all formal and informal correspondences.
The name “Nungura,” rooted in the tribe’s dialect and meaning “people who are very close to each other,” encapsulates the community’s values of solidarity and kinship. This renaming is not merely symbolic but a bold reaffirmation of cultural pride, aligning with broader state initiatives to promote indigenous identities, as evidenced by Adamawa’s 2025 World Tourism Day celebrations emphasizing sustainable cultural transformation.
HRM Dr. Kuruhaye’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in this cultural renaissance. Known for his progressive approach, the monarch has revitalized the Nungura kingdom through initiatives promoting economic empowerment, education, and community cohesion.
His efforts have earned him widespread acclaim as a transformative leader who bridges tradition with modernity. The renaming reflects his dedication to restoring the tribe’s authentic identity, correcting historical misnomers, and fostering a sense of belonging among the Nungura people, renowned for their matrilineal traditions and rich linguistic diversity.
Governor Fintiri’s approval of the name change highlights his administration’s commitment to ethnic self-determination and cultural preservation. His longstanding collaboration with traditional rulers like HRM Dr. Kuruhaye has strengthened grassroots governance and cultural advocacy across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas.
At the festival, dignitaries, including representatives from non-governmental organizations and development partners, lauded the governor’s support and the monarch’s foresight. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Mrs. Uju Rochas Okorocha, praised the inclusive leadership of both Fintiri and Kuruhaye, noting the empowerment of women in local governance as a model for national emulation.
The festival itself was a spectacle of Nungura heritage, featuring traditional dances, music, and displays of local craftsmanship, drawing thousands of attendees. Community leaders emphasized that the renaming will inspire younger generations to embrace their heritage while positioning Nungura as a beacon of cultural resilience in Nigeria’s diverse Northeast.
Dr. Mary Paninga, Chairperson of the Adamawa State Planning Commission, described the initiative as “a timely step toward cultural sovereignty,” predicting it will enhance community development programs like the Nutrition 774 Initiative.
HRM Dr. Kuruhaye’s address, concluding with the traditional greeting “Ki barka wussa,” resonated deeply, inviting all to embrace this new chapter. His leadership continues to transform challenges into opportunities, cementing Nungura’s place as a vibrant, united, and forward-looking community.
As dignitaries and citizens alike celebrated this milestone, the renaming of Nungura stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and collective pride in shaping a brighter future.
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