Bauchi Gov reforms traditional leadership, creates 14 new emirates, chiefdoms

By Ahmed Ahmed

Bauchi State Government House, October 21, 2025 In a historic ceremony held today at the Government House, His Excellency Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON, FNIPR, the Executive Governor of Bauchi State, signed into law two pivotal bills aimed at reforming and strengthening traditional institutions across the state.

The Bauchi State Emirates and Chieftaincies (Appointment and Deposition) Law, 2025 and the Zaar Chiefdom Law, 2025 mark a transformative step in enhancing grassroots governance, promoting inclusivity, and fostering unity.

Mohammed emphasized the significance of these laws as part of Bauchi’s preparations to commemorate its 50th anniversary next year. Reflecting on the state’s evolution since its creation in 1976, he underscored the need to adapt traditional structures to better serve the growing and diverse population.

“Our traditional institutions are not being replaced but renewed to meet modern governance challenges,” he said.

The reform process was notably inclusive and consultative. A High-Powered Committee, comprising representatives from all 20 local government areas and traditional councils, conducted extensive reviews, public hearings, and community consultations before recommending the creation of new Emirates and Chiefdoms.

Fourteen new Emirates and Chiefdoms, including Burra, Dambam, Darazo, and the Zaar Chiefdom, were established to improve local administration and development.

Governor Mohammed called on all citizens to embrace the changes, stressing that any attempts to politicize or sabotage the reforms would be met with strict legal action.

He also signed the Bauchi State Supplementary Appropriation Law and the Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme 2025, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to development and welfare.

This milestone represents a blend of tradition and progress, positioning Bauchi for sustained peace, unity, and growth.