Rebecca Mu’azu, Yola,
The usually tranquil town of Ganye in North-East Nigeria was transformed into a vibrant centre of culture and celebration on Saturday, 31st May 2025, as thousands gathered to mark the 25th anniversary of His Royal Highness, Dr Umaru Adamu Sanda, as Gangwari Ganye.
The grand occasion, held at the Gangwari’s palace, attracted dignitaries, traditional rulers, and citizens from across Nigeria and beyond, including delegations from neighbouring Cameroon and faraway River State.
The historic event not only honoured a quarter-century of royal leadership, but also underscored the cultural significance of the Ganye Chiefdom in Adamawa State.
Voice of Nigeria reported a strong national presence, with the highlight of the event being the conferment of the prestigious title of Gangpaan, meaning “Shield of the Chamba Race,” on retired General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s post-independence military and political history.
In a poignant speech following his conferment, General Danjuma urged Nigerians to embrace loyalty and unity, reaffirming the values of service and patriotism.
Gen. Danjuma affirmed his identity as a member of the Chamba ethnic group, noting that although their language has largely been assimilated by the Jukun people in Taraba State, due to intermarriage, strong cultural ties remained with the Chamba Communities across West Africa and Cameroon.
Legacy of a Dynasty
Dr. Umaru Adamu Sanda ascended the throne in 2000, following in the footsteps of his father, the late Gangwari Adamu Sanda, the first Paramount Ruler of Ganye. The elder Sanda was installed as a 3rd Class Chief on 15th May 1972.
Under his son’s stewardship, Ganye Chiefdom rose to a 1st Class status in 2004, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s traditional governance.
What began as a modest chiefdom of seven districts has flourished into a robust institution encompassing 36 districts, serving as a testament to the vision and leadership of the current Gangwari.
His Royal Highness, Dr. Sanda now reigns over a diverse population including the Chamba people, who form the majority, alongside the Mummuye, Fulani and other ethnic groups.
Reflecting on the milestone, the Gangwari addressed the gathering, stating, “This silver jubilee is not just a personal celebration, but a tribute to our collective journey, resilience, and unity as a people.”
National Tributes and Recognition
In a message delivered on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Mr. Uba Maigari Ahmadu, the federal government praised the Gangwari for his enduring commitment to leadership and cultural preservation.
Mr. Ahmadu, a Chamba man from Taraba, also affirmed his affinity on the tribe, while wishing the Gangwari many more years of a peaceful reign.
The Governor of Adamawa State, Mr Umaru Ahmadu Fintiri, in a speech delivered at the grand celebration, hailed the royal father’s silver jubilee as an unwavering service, wisdom, and leadership.
He highlighted the achievements under the monarch’s reign, commending the improvements in education, agriculture, traditional governance, and community development in Ganye. He praised the Gangwari Ganye for being “a father to all, a rallying point in times of challenge and a bridge builder among diverse communities.
“Under your leadership, Ganye has witnessed improvements in education, agriculture, traditional governance and community engagement. I commend Gangwari’s tireless efforts in complementing the efforts of government, especially in the areas of conflict resolution, youth empowerment and cultural preservation. Your relationship with the government is one of partnership, mutual respect and shared commitment to the well-being of our people,” said Governor Fintiri.