Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has signed into law four landmark bills aimed at strengthening governance, revitalizing the traditional institution, and improving the welfare of workers across the state.
The newly assented legislations include the Zaar Chiefdom Law, which repeals the former Sayawa Chiefdom Law, establishing the headquarters of the Zaar Chiefdom at Mhrim Namchi in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area. Governor Mohammed said the development fulfills a long-standing demand of the Zaar community for self-recognition.
Also signed into law is the Chieftaincy Appointment and Deposition Law, which provides for the creation of 13 new emirates and over 100 district heads across the state. The new emirates include Duguri, Bununu, Lere, Jama’a, Lame, Toro, Burra, Ari, Warji, Darazo, Dambam, Giade, and Gamawa.
In a further bid to improve workers’ welfare, the governor enacted the Local Government Pension Contributory Scheme Law, designed to resolve accumulated pension and gratuity arrears owed to retired local government workers. The law also establishes a sustainable framework for pension management at the local level.
Governor Mohammed equally signed the 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Act, which seeks to ensure the continued implementation of key developmental projects and programmes across the state.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Government House, Bauchi, the governor cautioned against politicizing the new reforms and directed security agencies to ensure strict compliance with the new laws.
“These reforms are not meant to divide but to strengthen our state. They aim to foster inclusion, peace, and equitable development across all communities,” he stated.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Sulaiman, who presented the bills to the governor, commended Mohammed for his commitment to the people’s aspirations. He noted that the strong turnout during the public hearings reflected the widespread demand for improved governance and traditional representation.
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage, promoting unity, and ensuring inclusive growth. He emphasized that traditional rulers remain vital partners in maintaining peace and driving socio-economic progress in Bauchi State.
