By Akeweta Emmanuel JP PhD
The 26th Paramount Ruler of the His Royal Majesty Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo. Gubo Yungur I
The 26th Paramount Ruler of the Yungur Chiefdom
The Yungur Chiefdom after 6 decades of loss!
The Yungur Chiefdom stands as one of the oldest and most historically significant traditional institutions in Adamawa State, with a heritage spanning nearly three centuries. Established as a well-organised and self-governing entity, the Chiefdom flourished under the reign of its paramount rulers, known as the Gubo Yungur, who provided leadership, stability, and direction to the Yungur people.
Throughout its long history, 25 paramount rulers guided the Chiefdom with wisdom and strength, up until 1959, when the colonial administration, in its characteristic strategy of suppressing indigenous governance, confiscated the staff of authority.
This marked the beginning of a period of decline in the Chiefdom's traditional autonomy. By 1960, the once-powerful Yungur Chiefdom was officially reduced to a mere district, effectively dissolving the institution of paramount rulership and altering the socio-political structure of the Yungur people.
Despite these challenges, the legacy of past rulers remained a source of strength. Among the renowned Gubo Yungur were:
- Gubo Yakusum (1823–1863), A leader known for his wisdom and commitment to unity.
- Gubo Yongon (1869–1879), A courageous and strategic ruler who strengthened the Chiefdom’s defences.
- Gubo Augeredya (1897–1910), A diplomatic and visionary leader celebrated for his foresight.
- Gubo Agbalan Augubakla (1914–1929, 1947–1959), A symbol of resilience who fiercely defended Yungur heritage and customs.
While the details of earlier rulers remain preserved in historical records, their collective contributions shaped the Chiefdom into a formidable entity that stood the test of time.
The Restoration of the Yungur Chiefdom
The long-awaited restoration of the Yungur Chiefdom marks a defining moment in the history of the Yungur people. The appointment of His Royal Majesty, Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo, as the 26th Gubo Yungur signifies the dawn of a new era, one that promises unity, cultural revival, and progressive leadership.
HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo: A Monarch of Distinction
Born on 2nd January 1951 in Prambe, Adamawa State, HRM Johnson Dio Matalo emerges from the revered Mwapa Clan, the ruling lineage of the Yungur Chiefdom. A descendant of legendary rulers, HRM embodies the virtues of wisdom, courage, and vision that defined his ancestors.
Education and Professional Excellence
HRM’s educational journey began at S.U.M. Primary School, Shelleng, before advancing to Demonstration School, Numan. His passion for healthcare led him to the School of Nursing, Kano, where he graduated in 1973. His thirst for knowledge saw him attend prestigious international training programs in Scotland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Ghana, acquiring advanced skills in sales, marketing, and strategic leadership.
A Distinguished Career in Healthcare and Business
HRM began his career as a bedside nurse at Mubi General Hospital, later serving as a Clinical Nurse Instructor in Bauchi and Yola. His transition into healthcare marketing saw him rise through the ranks at Ethicon Ltd., where he became a Senior Medical Sales Executive, overseeing critical operations.
In 2005, HRM founded JODMAT Nigeria Ltd., a company specialising in the importation and distribution of medical supplies. Under his leadership, JODMAT became a trusted supplier to teaching hospitals and medical institutions across Nigeria, including major centres in Zaria, Kano, Jos, Maiduguri, and Yola.
A Monarch for the Future
With a career spanning healthcare, business, and leadership, HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo brings unparalleled experience to his role as Paramount Ruler of the Yungur Chiefdom. His reign promises to:
- Preserve and promote Yungur cultural heritage
- Foster unity and communal development
- Enhance education and economic opportunities
- Engage with governmental and non-governmental organisations to drive sustainable development
Married to Mrs Rebecca Johnson Matalo, HRM is blessed with **five children and four grandchildren, a testament to his strong family values.
A New Dawn for the Yungur Chiefdom
The ascension of HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo signifies the rebirth of an institution that was unjustly suppressed for over six decades. As the "26th Paramount Ruler", he stands as a bridge between the wisdom of the past and the aspirations of the future. His leadership will undoubtedly usher in an era of renewal, cultural pride, and socio-economic progress for the Yungur people.
With his coronation, the Yungur Chiefdom reclaims its rightful place in history, a legacy restored, a heritage revitalised, and a future redefined.
Culled from the archives of Yungur - Tribes of Northern Nigeria
The Yungur Chiefdom after 6 decades of loss!
The Yungur Chiefdom stands as one of the oldest and most historically significant traditional institutions in Adamawa State, with a heritage spanning nearly three centuries. Established as a well-organised and self-governing entity, the Chiefdom flourished under the reign of its paramount rulers, known as the Gubo Yungur, who provided leadership, stability, and direction to the Yungur people.
Throughout its long history, 25 paramount rulers guided the Chiefdom with wisdom and strength, up until 1959, when the colonial administration, in its characteristic strategy of suppressing indigenous governance, confiscated the staff of authority. This marked the beginning of a period of decline in the Chiefdom's traditional autonomy. By 1960, the once-powerful Yungur Chiefdom was officially reduced to a mere district, effectively dissolving the institution of paramount rulership and altering the socio-political structure of the Yungur people.
Despite these challenges, the legacy of past rulers remained a source of strength. Among the renowned Gubo Yungur were:
- Gubo Yakusum (1823–1863), A leader known for his wisdom and commitment to unity.
- Gubo Yongon (1869–1879), A courageous and strategic ruler who strengthened the Chiefdom’s defences.
- Gubo Augeredya (1897–1910), A diplomatic and visionary leader celebrated for his foresight.
- Gubo Agbalan Augubakla (1914–1929, 1947–1959), A symbol of resilience who fiercely defended Yungur heritage and customs.
While the details of earlier rulers remain preserved in historical records, their collective contributions shaped the Chiefdom into a formidable entity that stood the test of time.
The Restoration of the Yungur Chiefdom
The long-awaited restoration of the Yungur Chiefdom marks a defining moment in the history of the Yungur people. The appointment of His Royal Majesty, Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo, as the 26th Gubo Yungur signifies the dawn of a new era, one that promises unity, cultural revival, and progressive leadership.
HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo: A Monarch of Distinction
Born on 2nd January 1951 in Prambe, Adamawa State, HRM Johnson Dio Matalo emerges from the revered Mwapa Clan, the ruling lineage of the Yungur Chiefdom. A descendant of legendary rulers, HRM embodies the virtues of wisdom, courage, and vision that defined his ancestors.
Education and Professional Excellence
HRM’s educational journey began at S.U.M. Primary School, Shelleng, before advancing to Demonstration School, Numan. His passion for healthcare led him to the School of Nursing, Kano, where he graduated in 1973. His thirst for knowledge saw him attend prestigious international training programs in Scotland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Ghana, acquiring advanced skills in sales, marketing, and strategic leadership.
A Distinguished Career in Healthcare and Business
HRM began his career as a bedside nurse at Mubi General Hospital, later serving as a Clinical Nurse Instructor in Bauchi and Yola. His transition into healthcare marketing saw him rise through the ranks at Ethicon Ltd., where he became a Senior Medical Sales Executive, overseeing critical operations.
In 2005, HRM founded JODMAT Nigeria Ltd., a company specialising in the importation and distribution of medical supplies. Under his leadership, JODMAT became a trusted supplier to teaching hospitals and medical institutions across Nigeria, including major centres in Zaria, Kano, Jos, Maiduguri, and Yola.
A Monarch for the Future
With a career spanning healthcare, business, and leadership, HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo brings unparalleled experience to his role as Paramount Ruler of the Yungur Chiefdom. His reign promises to:
- Preserve and promote Yungur cultural heritage
- Foster unity and communal development
- Enhance education and economic opportunities
- Engage with governmental and non-governmental organisations to drive sustainable development
Married to Mrs Rebecca Johnson Matalo, HRM is blessed with **five children and four grandchildren, a testament to his strong family values.
A New Dawn for the Yungur Chiefdom
The ascension of HRM Gubo Johnson Dio Matalo signifies the rebirth of an institution that was unjustly suppressed for over six decades. As the "26th Paramount Ruler", he stands as a bridge between the wisdom of the past and the aspirations of the future. His leadership will undoubtedly usher in an era of renewal, cultural pride, and socio-economic progress for the Yungur people.
With his coronation, the Yungur Chiefdom reclaims its rightful place in history, a legacy restored, a heritage revitalised, and a future redefined.
Culled from the archives of Yungur - Tribes of Northern Nigeria