Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has approved a new law establishing 13 additional emirates and one chiefdom across the state, bringing the total number of emirates to 19. The signing ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Government House in Bauchi.
The newly established emirates include Burra in Burra, Danbam in Danbam, Darazo in Darazo, Duguri in Yuli, Gamawa in Gamawa, Giade in Giade, Toro in Toro, Warji in Katangar Warji, Lere in Lere, Jama’a in Nabordo, Lame in Gumau, Ari in Gadar Maiwa, and Bununu in Bununu. The newly created Zaar Chiefdom will be located in Mrim.
After assenting to the bills, the governor directed the State Attorney-General and the Secretary to the State Government to ensure that the law is gazetted and distributed to all relevant offices.
He also issued a warning against any act of violence or unrest that might arise from the implementation of the new law, stating that security agencies have been authorized to maintain peace and order.
Governor Mohammed explained that the creation of new emirates and a chiefdom was introduced to strengthen local governance, improve representation, and bring development closer to the grassroots. According to him, the initiative aims to promote inclusivity, enhance cultural recognition, and foster unity among the state’s diverse communities.
He noted that the reform would also help improve data management and revenue generation at the local level, thereby aiding development planning, resource allocation, and attracting both national and international partnerships.
The governor added that the decision was based on recommendations from the Hamza Koshe Akuyam Committee, which reviewed numerous petitions from communities across the 20 local government areas.
The committee engaged in public hearings, received submissions, and studied similar reforms in other states before making its final recommendations.
Governor Mohammed maintained that the process was transparent and aimed purely at governance improvement rather than political interest, describing the initiative as one driven by necessity and merit.