By Our Correspondent
The ancient Ganye Chiefdom came alive in spectacular cultural colours as the Paramount Ruler, the Gangwari of Ganye, Alhaji Umaru Adamu Sanda, commended the Chamba Youth Council of Nigeria (CYCN) for their unwavering commitment, patriotism, and strategic efforts toward preserving and promoting the Chamba heritage.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the National Chamba Youth Leadership and Economic Summit, held at the Federal Government College (FGC) Ganye from December 3rd–6th, 2025, the revered monarch lauded the youth body for successfully hosting yet another historic summit—having staged the 2024 edition in Taraba State. He described their consistency, vision, and national outlook as “a shining testimony of responsible leadership and cultural pride.”
Unity is the Strength of the Chamba Race
In a deeply reflective address, the Gangwari emphasized that unity remains the greatest pillar upon which the development and progressive advancement of the Chamba race must stand. He urged Chamba sons and daughters across Nigeria and in the diaspora to close ranks, build bridges of brotherhood, and place the collective identity above individual ambitions.
> “Unity is everything. It is the foundation of leadership, the strength of our culture, and the future of our children,” the Gangwari declared to thunderous applause.
He noted with pride that the Chamba Chiefdom has produced respected national personalities, including ministers, directors, bank executives, and top-ranking military officers—proof that a united heritage can produce world-class leaders.
Mammoth Crowd Floods Ganye in Historic Cultural Reunion
The three-day summit climaxed on Saturday, December 6th, with a mammoth crowd trooping into FGC Ganye to witness cultural exhibitions, keynote sessions, and the prestigious Chamba Awards of Honour. Delegates from across Nigeria and several African countries attended, giving the event an inspiring continental outlook.
The 2025 edition attracted participants from Ghana, Togo, South Africa, and beyond—an indication of the deep, expanding admiration for the Chamba cultural identity, its values, and its leadership philosophy.
The grand finale was attended by notable dignitaries including the Chamba Cultural Development Association CCDA President Mr. Polycarp S. Kaigama (JP), the Adamawa State Commissioner for Works, Hon. Adamu Atiku, son of Nigeria’s former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; the Executive Chairmen of Ganye and Toungo Local Government Areas Hon. Suleiman GK and Hon. Mohammed Farouk. Also in attendance was, Hon. Patricia Yakubu Seubittere (Sarauniya), Prince Emmanuel Esly (Jarma Garum); and many other cultural icons, traditional leaders, technocrats, and community patriots.
Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards to outstanding patriots who have made significant contributions to sociocultural advancement, youth empowerment, and economic development within Chamba communities. The awards symbolized a generational handshake between the custodians of tradition and the rising league of Chamba youth leaders.
Summit Returning Home: A Historic Symbol
The National Chamba Youth Leadership and Economic Summit has grown into one of Nigeria’s most influential youth gatherings, celebrating Chamba identity, innovation, enterprise, and leadership excellence.
Last year’s edition, held between October 25–26, 2024, in Jalingo, Taraba State, attracted a remarkable mix of cultural stakeholders, policy influencers, and emerging African leaders. The 2025 edition, returning to Ganye—cradle of the Chamba civilization—was described as symbolic, historic, and deeply emotional for many delegates.
As the curtains dropped, the Gangwari of Ganye encouraged the Chamba Youth Council to sustain the momentum, deepen their unity, and continue offering visionary leadership that inspires the next generation.
> “Your commitment encourages me. Continue with this beautiful work of protecting our heritage and building a stronger Chamba nation,” he said.
The successful summit leaves behind renewed hope, strengthened bonds, and a powerful message—that when the Chamba stand together, they stand unstoppable.
PIONEER NEWS 