As the Bauchi State Government announced a collection of memoranda to create additional emirates, chiefdoms, and districts, residents have lauded the government for fostering inclusion and preservation of indigenous identity.

One of the residents, David Zull, said that the Government’s move was commendable while adding that Bauchi is one of the most ethnically diverse in Nigeria and has historically been dominated by a limited number of traditional structures inherited from the colonial era.

He said that the Governor’s decision to expand emirates, chiefdoms, and districts signals a paradigmatic shift towards accommodating a broader spectrum of indigenous groups in governance and cultural representation.

Zull believed that additional emirates would correct the imbalance in cultural settings by decentralizing authority and formally recognising previously marginalised communities.

“The erosion of indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions is a global phenomenon, exacerbated by modernisation and urbanisation. In this context, traditional institutions serve not only administrative purposes but also function as custodians of cultural heritage.

“By formally recognising new emirates and chiefdoms, the Bauchi State government affirms the legitimacy of indigenous identities and creates institutional space for their preservation and transmission,” he added.

According to him, for the policy to succeed, the government must ensure equitable allocation of resources to newly created units, provide capacity-building support for traditional rulers, and enact legal frameworks that define the scope and limits of their authority.

“These measures are essential to prevent administrative inefficiencies and maintain public confidence in the reform process,” he said.

Another stakeholder, Abubakar Maijama’a, said that the government is ready to give everyone a sense of belonging while promoting the diverse cultural heritage of Bauchi State.

“Bala Mohammed has demonstrated courage and is a leader who feels the pulse of the people he leads. His policies and programmes and in line with citizens’ needs.”