Thirteen new emirates and one chiefdom have been created in Bauchi state, bringing the number of the six existing emirates and chiefdoms to 20.
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed assented to the Bauchi State Chieftaincy and Deposition Law and Matters Related Thereto, 2025, on Tuesday in Bauchi.
Agreeing to the bill, Governor Bala Mohammed named the fourteen new emirates and chiefdoms Bura with its palace at Bura, Dambam in Dambam, Darazo in Darazo, Duguri in Yuli, and Gamawa in Gamawa.
Others are the Giade emirate in Giade, Toro in Toro, Warji in Katangar Warji, Ari at Gadan Maiwa, Jama’a at Nabordo, Lame at Gumau, Bununu in Bununu, Lere in Lere, and Zaar Chiefdom, with the headquarters at Mhrim in Tatawa Balewa.
Governor Bala said that the reform in the traditional institution of the state was meant to strengthen the unity of Bauchi, deepen local governance and encourage cooperation. In time, the vision and benefits will become clearer.
The repeal of the Sayawa Chiefdom and enactment of the Zaar Chiefdom with headquarters at Mhrim community in Tafawa Balewa Local Government area to address long-standing community demands.
Also, the Chieftaincy Appointment and Deposition Law creates new emirates and over one hundred district heads across Bauchi State.
Governor Bala Mohammed warned against politicising or undermining the implementation of the newly enacted laws, adding that security agencies are directed to take appropriate action.
In collaboration with the Secretary to the State Government, he directed the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice to immediately gazette and distribute copies of the law to all relevant authorities and institutions for implementation, especially the security agencies.
He also directed security agencies to ensure strict compliance, noting that the reforms are intended to foster inclusion, peace, and equitable development across all communities.
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, promoting unity, and ensuring inclusive development, stressing that traditional rulers remain vital partners in maintaining peace and driving socio-economic progress across Bauchi State.
The Governor signed the Local Government Pension Contributory Scheme into law, pledging to clear the backlog of pensions and gratuities owed to retired local government workers.
In addition, the 2025 Appropriation Supplementary Act was signed to support the smooth implementation of ongoing developmental projects and programs initiated by his administration.
Presenting the bills, the Bauchi State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Sulaiman commended the Governor for his responsiveness to various communities.
He noted that the massive turnout at the public hearings reflected citizens’ strong desire for government presence and effective traditional administration at the grassroots level.
