Adamawa: Adamawa State Governor in northeast Nigeria, Ahmadu Fintiri, has signed into law a bill establishing the official seal of the state, to be cited as a law to create the seal of Adamawa and regulate its use in 2025. The legislation provides for the creation, regulation, and protection of the Seal, which will serve as the official emblem of the Government of Adamawa State.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Seal is designed to preserve the State’s identity, cultural heritage, and authority while also symbolising unity and shared aspirations. Speaking at the signing, Governor Fintiri described the seal as more than a symbol, stressing that it represents dignity, discipline, and responsibility. “This law reinforces our commitment to good governance, order, and respect for our cultural values. It is not just a seal but a statement of identity and responsibility for all who serve under it,” he stated.
Under the new law, the Seal is strictly reserved for official government purposes. However, its use may be authorised for commemorative, historical, or educational purposes by a designated authority. Unauthorised use, imitation, or reproduction is prohibited. Individuals found guilty of misuse will face a fine of ?250,000 or two years’ imprisonment, or both, while corporate bodies will pay a penalty of ?1,000,000, in addition to other possible legal sanctions.
The seal embodies Adamawa’s history, cultural strength, and economic vibrancy, reflected in its carefully chosen symbols, including Kakaki (Traditional trumpet) representing power, authority, and royalty; Spear symbolising warrior heritage and past victories; Horse denoting courage, royalty, and strength; 21 Stars representing the 21 Local Government Areas; Lion indicating leadership and resilience of chiefdoms; Book and Academic Hat reflecting educational pursuit and intellectual capacity; and Cattle and Crops signifying agricultural strength and food security. The Fisherman symbolises the economic and social contributions of riverine communities.
The law further empowers the Approving Authority, under the oversight of the House of Assembly, to make additional regulations to prevent abuse or misleading use of the Seal in commercial and promotional contexts. The adoption of the Seal was part of Governor Fintiri’s administration’s vision of strengthening institutions and entrenching respect for cultural values. “This Seal tells our story as a people-our courage, our intellect, our resources, and our unity. It belongs to every citizen of Adamawa and must be treated with the reverence it deserves,” Fintiri added.