The Adamawa State Boundary Commission, led by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, has inaugurated the Local Government Boundary Committee, tasking its members with safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity under the current administration.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Government House Banquet Hall, was attended by members of the State Executive Council, security agencies, local government officials, traditional rulers, and land officers.
In her remarks, Prof. Farauta underscored the significance of the committee’s work, emphasizing teamwork and commitment to resolving disputes peacefully. She noted that Adamawa State shares the longest boundary stretch with the Republic of Cameroon, spanning nine local government areas, and stressed the need for careful and amicable resolutions to land and boundary issues.
“Our land is our heritage, passed down from our forebears. If we cannot add to it, we must not allow it to shrink. Future generations will depend on this land when we are no more,” Farauta said.
Acknowledging the complexity of boundary challenges, she urged committee members to handle their responsibilities with dedication to ensure peace, security, and economic activity along the state’s borders. She also highlighted Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s administration’s zero tolerance for any actions that could compromise the state’s territorial integrity and called for proper documentation of boundary matters to ensure continuity and effective management.
In her welcome address, Mercy Dauda, the Permanent Secretary of the State Boundary Commission, described the event as a milestone in promoting harmony and development in border communities. She reminded attendees that boundaries are more than just geographical lines, emphasizing their importance for governance and unity.
“Critical boundary issues must be carefully and peacefully managed to unite, not divide, our people,” Dauda stated, urging the committee members to approach their tasks with professionalism and a commitment to fostering peace.
Speaking on behalf of the committee members, Saleh Shelleng pledged their dedication to the mandate, vowing to work diligently and professionally to address boundary disputes and uphold the state’s interests.