From Our Correspondent
GANYE, ADAMAWA STATE — History came alive on Monday, September 15, 2025, as the Nicolas Barre College Hall in Ganye became the epicenter of jubilation. Thousands thronged the venue to celebrate the 25th anniversary of His Highness, Alhaji Aminu Adamu Sanda, FHNR, MICEN (Al-ami Ado Mai Nasara, Yeriman Ganye Chiefdom, Uban Marayun Ganye), the District Head of Ganye Metropolitan.
The hall, packed beyond capacity, overflowed with admirers, forcing many to gather outside just to be part of the historic moment. The atmosphere was electric, with cultural troupes, union groups, and village dancers filling the air with rhythm, chants, and messages of goodwill. It was a portrait of unity and admiration for a monarch whose reign has been defined by peace, inclusivity, and sacrifice.
Prayers Before Celebration
Ahead of Monday’s festivities, the people of Ganye had already set the tone of devotion. At Friday’s Juma’at prayers, mosques across the district offered supplications for peace, wisdom, and long life for the District Head. On Sunday, churches echoed similar prayers during their services. The interfaith gesture was a moving testament to how deeply Alhaji Aminu is loved—not only by his subjects but by the entire Ganye community.
From the break of dawn, Ganye throbbed with anticipation. By mid-morning, the Nicolas Barre College Hall and its surroundings were overflowing, with many forced to stand outside, eager to catch a glimpse of history in the making. Union groups, cultural dancers, village troupes, and well-wishers from across Adamawa State filled the air with music, chants, and goodwill messages. It was a vivid portrait of a people united in pride and loyalty to their monarch—fondly hailed as Uban Marayun Ganye, the Father of the Orphans.
When Yeriman Ganye ascended the throne 25 years ago, Ganye was a fragile mosaic of ethnicities—Chamba, Fulani, Hausa, Mummuye, Igbo, and others. Instead of division, his reign fostered inclusivity. His council of chiefs reflects ethnic diversity, and his traditional titles transcend tribal boundaries. Under his stewardship, tolerance, reconciliation, and mutual respect have become cornerstones of life in Ganye.
His legacy is also etched in how he responds to adversity. Whether calming tensions between Chamba farmers and Fulani herders or restraining violence after a police officer’s stray bullet nearly struck him, Yeriman Ganye has consistently chosen wisdom and fairness over vengeance. Even during Boko Haram’s devastating 2013 attack that destroyed his residence—still unrepaired to this day—he sacrificed personal comfort to ensure the safety of his people.
Champion of Education and Health
Alhaji Aminu’s reign has reshaped education and healthcare in Ganye. He spearheaded the founding of primary schools that have since grown into thriving secondary institutions, while also revitalizing health centers in Sangassumi and the Old Market. His personal academic journey—from diploma to master’s degree—has further cemented his reputation as a role model for the youth.
The 25th anniversary was more than a ceremony; it was an outpouring of affection. The massive turnout, the vibrant dances, and the cascade of goodwill messages all reflected a deeper truth: Yeriman Ganye is not just a traditional ruler. To his people, he is a father, a reconciler, and a bridge between generations.
As the cheers reverberated through Nicolas Barre Hall and spilled into the streets, one message stood tall: in an age of fractured leadership, Alhaji Aminu Adamu Sanda has for 25 years been a beacon of peace, justice, and unity.
Long live Yeriman Ganye. Long live Ganye Chiefdom.
PIONEER NEWS 