Day Hon. Aisha Barde Stepped Out As Zinariyar Mumuyawa in Zing

In a powerful display of culture, tradition, and recognition, the town of Zing came alive on April 3, 2025, as the Honorable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change in Taraba State, Hon. Aisha Abdulazeez Barde, was conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Zinariyar Mumuyewa by the royal father of the Zing Chiefdom, His Royal Highness Alhaji Sulaiman Ibrahim Sambo, the Kpanti Zing.

The event was not only a moment of cultural reverence but also a celebration of a woman whose influence continues to shape Taraba's environmental and developmental landscape. The title, which means "Jewel of the Mumuye People", is a testament to Hon. Barde's tireless service, commitment to her people, and dedication to climate advocacy.

The palace of the Kpanti Zing was a picturesque scene of elegance and excitement, as people from all walks of life thronged the venue to witness the historic occasion. Traditional drummers, dancers, and performers set the tone for what became one of the most colorful events in the Zing traditional calendar.

Amidst the echoes of royal trumpets and cultural chants, Hon. Aisha Barde stepped forward gracefully, clad in a regal Mumuye-inspired outfit adorned with intricate embroidery and symbolic patterns that paid homage to her ethnic roots. Her turbaning was performed with ceremonial precision, led by palace chiefs and dignitaries, under the guidance of the Kpanti Zing himself.

As the turban was placed on her head, cheers erupted from the crowd—a moment that symbolized not just honor, but a collective acknowledgment of a daughter of the soil whose achievements had reached far beyond her community.

Hon. Aisha Abdulazeez Barde has over the years carved a niche for herself in public service, most notably in her current role as Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change in Taraba State. Since her appointment by Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, Hon. Barde has been a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability, climate action, and eco-conscious governance.

Under her leadership, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has launched several initiatives aimed at combating desertification, promoting green jobs, and increasing environmental awareness at grassroots levels.

Her recognition by the Zing Traditional Council is not only a nod to her professional accomplishments but also a celebration of her cultural pride and grassroots connection. Being a native Mumuye woman, her conferment as Zinariyar Mumuyewa also represents the confidence of the council in her ability to lead with integrity, rootedness, and vision.

In her acceptance speech, Hon. Barde, visibly moved, expressed profound gratitude to the Kpanti Zing and the entire traditional council for the honor bestowed upon her.

"This is one of the most memorable days of my life," she said with emotion in her voice. "To be recognized by my people, in my hometown, with a title that speaks to legacy and heritage—it is a moment I will cherish forever."

She went on to reaffirm her commitment to public service and pledged to continue her efforts in supporting the Zing Chiefdom, the Mumuye Nation, and the state of Taraba at large.

"This honor is a call to do more," she stated. "I pledge to continue working towards a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Taraba. Our people deserve sustainable development, and I am here to ensure that their voices and the needs of our environment are never ignored."

The ceremony drew a broad spectrum of guests, including fellow commissioners, government officials, traditional title holders, youth leaders, NGOs, and members of the Taraba State Executive Council. Friends, family, and well-wishers traveled from as far as Abuja, Jalingo, and neighboring states to witness the event.

One of the guests, Mrs. Halima Usman from the ministry, described Hon. Barde as "a woman of uncommon dedication, a public servant whose work speaks for itself."

Community leader and youth activist, Danladi Mamza, added that the youth of Zing and the Mumuye people see her as a role model. He noted that she combines modern governance with deep respect for their traditions, and her honor that day was well-deserved.

Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, who was represented praised Hon. Barde for her excellent service delivery, describing her as "one of the jewels of the administration."

"We are proud of your achievements," the governor's message read. "This honor reflects the trust and pride your people have in you. Continue to raise the banner of Taraba high."

The significance of the title Zinariyar Mumuyewa goes beyond cultural symbolism. It represents a powerful bridge between tradition and progressive governance. 

For a woman to earn such a title within the highly revered Mumuye sociopolitical structure speaks volumes about how modern leadership and indigenous recognition can harmoniously coexist.

The Mumuye people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Taraba State, have a rich history of community leadership, cultural expression, and grassroots development. With this honor, Hon. Barde now stands as a cultural ambassador, further integrating her public mandate with a renewed sense of community obligation.

Since assuming office, Hon. Barde has introduced several forward-thinking projects in the state. These include a large-scale tree-planting campaign called the "Green Taraba" initiative, which focuses on environmental restoration and youth empowerment. She has also facilitated climate education workshops across local governments to raise awareness about the effects of climate change on farming, health, and water resources.

Additionally, she has worked to modernize waste management systems in urban and semi-urban centers across the state, and is actively promoting community-led recycling practices. Her "Women in Environment" program has given rural and urban women a voice in environmental planning, climate adaptation, and clean energy access.

These programs have not only helped mitigate environmental degradation but have also served as a platform for socio-economic empowerment, particularly for women and young people.

Her work has earned recognition from national and international environmental bodies, with some beginning collaborations to support her grassroots initiatives in Taraba State.

With her new traditional title, Hon. Barde is not only elevated in status but now carries an even greater weight of expectation. The people of Zing, and indeed all of Taraba, look to her as a symbol of excellence, continuity, and hope.

"This title is not just for celebration," she emphasized in her closing remarks. "It is a challenge to continue serving with truth, vision, and compassion."

In a heartfelt appreciation, she thanked her family, her team, and everyone who stood by her journey—especially those who traveled to witness her turbaning.

"To my family, my staff, my friends, and supporters—I say thank you. Your belief in me has kept me going. I owe you all a duty to remain steadfast, to honor this title, and to remain committed to the values we hold dear."

She also made a passionate call for collective action in tackling environmental challenges.

"Climate change is not a faraway problem—it's here, and it's real. Together, we must rise to the occasion, from the government to our local communities, to protect our land, our air, and