Fintiri Named Only Nigerian Governor For Continental Food Security Leadership Award
Hanny Henry
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has been selected as the only serving governor in Nigeria to receive the African Association of Insect Scientists (AAIS) Award for Transformational Leadership in Food Security and Agricultural Resilience, in recognition of his contributions to sustainable agriculture and rural development across Africa.
The continental honour was approved by the leadership of the African Association of Insect Scientists during its deliberations ahead of the Association’s 26th Biennial International Conference.
The award will be formally presented to Governor Fintiri during the opening ceremony of the conference on October 19, 2026, at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Abuja.
In its official letter of conferment, the Association said the governor was selected for his visionary leadership and sustained commitment to improving food security, revitalising agriculture and rebuilding rural livelihoods in Adamawa State, particularly in communities recovering from the effects of insurgency.
It also commended his administration’s policies promoting climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
The AAIS further praised the Fintiri administration for its investments in rural infrastructure, support for farming communities and agricultural initiatives that have strengthened resilience and improved productivity across the state.
According to the Association, these interventions have enhanced the livelihoods of citizens while contributing to broader agricultural transformation on the continent.
Announcing the award, the Association described Governor Fintiri’s leadership as people-centred and impactful, noting that his policies have become a model for advancing food security, environmental sustainability and inclusive agricultural development in Africa.
The recognition is expected to further strengthen Adamawa State’s growing profile as a centre for agricultural innovation and rural development, while placing Governor Fintiri among a distinguished group of African leaders whose policies have made measurable contributions to food security, environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience.
The African Association of Insect Scientists is a continental professional body that promotes insect science to improve agricultural productivity, conserve biodiversity, enhance environmental sustainability and support food security across Africa.
