By Paul Efiong
The Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has been turbaned as Matawallen Kaltungo by the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Mohammed.
The event, took place today at the palace of Mai Kaltungo in Kaltungo.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Yahaya Yahaya re-echoed the importance and relevance of the traditional institution in peace building, saying he will continue to sustain the symbiotic relationship between his administration and the royal fathers in the state.
He also assured to restore the lost glory of the traditional institution in the state.
Expressing his appreciation, to the Mai and the entire people of the Chiefdom for the honour done to him and his administration, Governor Inuwa Yahaya assured the Kaltungo traditional council of his readiness to observe all the laid down rules and regulations of the tradition regarding his title.
He said” I consider this turbaning as a mark of honour and inspiration for all of us in Government. This will surely spur us to do more.
“ We shall continue to join hands and strengthen our symbiotic relationship with the traditional institution to galvanise our people in our strive to deliver on our mandate and take the state to the next level “.
Governor Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment in providing social aminities to all the nooks and crannies of the state, especially in critical areas such as education, health, agriculture, water supply, road network and security.
He decried the current security situation in the country, saying the situation requires collective resolve and efforts, especially with the traditional leaders who are the custodians of the communities, culture and traditions.
The Governor also stressed the need for the traditional rulers to join in enlightening and educating their subjects to take precautionary measures against deceases such as Lassa fever and other contagious and novel diseases.
Earlier, the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Mohammed said the conferment of the traditional title of Matawallen Kaltungo on Gombe Inuwa Yahaya marked a turning point in the history of his chiefdom.
He said the prestigious title was conferred on the Governor in recognition of his integrity, leadership qualities and superlative performance, which he noted have kept the state in steady path of growth and development.
The ceremony was filled with pomp, pageantry and unique traditional observance as well as array of first class Emirs and Chiefs, led by the Emir of Gombe and Chairman of the state Council of Emirs and Chiefs, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III in attendance.
Also, notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, Speaker, Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim Kurba, Senator BK Amos, Senator Joshua Lidani, Former Minister of Transport, Barrister Abdullahi Idris Umar, Members of the state House of Assembly, Commissioners Special Advisers, top Government functionaries as well as party stalwarts and well-wishers in attendance.
