Philip Brandford Adams
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has undeniably made remarkable progress in transforming the state through robust infrastructure development and a strong commitment to staff welfare. The state capital, Yola, has seen significant improvements with new roads that have not only enhanced transportation but also elevated the overall image of the city. These developments are a testament to your dedication to laying a solid foundation for Adamawa’s growth.
Moreover, your recent flag-off of the second edition of the 10,000 Women Empowerment Grants through the Fintiri Business Wallet is a commendable initiative. This program reflects your administration’s understanding of the critical role women play in driving the state’s economy and your commitment to empowering them to achieve financial independence. Additionally, the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage further highlights your administration’s focus on improving the welfare of civil servants, ensuring they can better meet their needs in these challenging times.
However, while these achievements are praiseworthy, there is an urgent need to address a critical area that has long been overlooked—investments in sectors that generate sustainable jobs and stimulate economic growth. Our current focus on infrastructure, while necessary, has been heavily inclined towards projects that offer minimal returns in terms of job creation and economic empowerment. For instance, projects like the Guyuk Cement Factory, Yola International Hotel, and Mubi Burnt Brick, though significant, have yet to fulfill their potential in providing widespread employment or spurring economic activities.
Agriculture, which has the potential to be the backbone of Adamawa’s economy, remains underdeveloped. Despite our rich agricultural resources, there has been insufficient investment in essential infrastructure like state-wide irrigation schemes or the provision of modern farming equipment such as tractors. Without these, the agricultural sector cannot thrive, and opportunities for job creation and food security remain untapped.
It is concerning that our spending continues to prioritize infrastructure that, while visually impressive, does little to address the immediate needs of the people—especially in terms of job creation. This approach, which focuses on structures over sustenance, reflects a poverty of the mind—a mentality that overlooks the importance of investments that can truly uplift the people by putting food on their tables and providing them with a means to a stable livelihood.
Governor Fintiri, your leadership has brought significant progress to Adamawa State, but the time has come to shift focus towards more job-creating investments. By channeling resources into agriculture and other high-impact sectors, you can ensure that your legacy is not just one of roads and buildings, but of a thriving, economically empowered populace. The people of Adamawa need more than just infrastructure—they need opportunities, jobs, and a future where their basic needs are met. It is time to balance the scales and invest in the long-term prosperity of our state
PIONEER NEWS 