All Hail the New Madaki Mambilla :Abdulrahman Leme Honoured for Distinguished Public Service

In a moment of cultural pride and recognition of excellence, Alhaji Abdulrahman Usman Leme has been conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Madaki Mambilla by the Chief of Mambilla and Chairman of the Sardauna Traditional Council, His Majesty Dr. Shehu Audu Baju II.

The honorary title, which translates to "Guardian of the Land" or "Defender of the People," was officially announced in a letter dated May 8, 2025, following a unanimous decision by the Sardauna Traditional Council in Gembu. The decision was based on Alhaji Leme's long-standing commitment to public service, strategic leadership, and unwavering patriotism.

"We therefore congratulate you on your well-deserving appointment and we wish you success in all your future endeavours," the letter, signed by the royal father, read in part.

The title of Madaki is one steeped in tradition and responsibility, often bestowed on individuals who exemplify the highest ideals of service, courage, and community development. For Alhaji Leme, the title marks not just a personal achievement but a call to deepen his service to the Mambilla Plateau and Nigeria at large.

Currently serving as Administrative Assistant to the National Security Adviser in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Leme is no stranger to high-level responsibilities. He plays a crucial role in strategic coordination, national security policy implementation, and providing expert advisory in areas critical to the country's stability and governance.

Before joining the ONSA, he was a Project Development Expert with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), where he focused on programmes designed for the rehabilitation and education of at-risk children and youth. His efforts contributed significantly to peacebuilding and social reintegration in post-conflict communities.

Alhaji Leme's career spans the public and private sectors, having served with institutions such as the Dangote Group, the Sani Bello Foundation, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, and NIRSAL PLC. Colleagues describe him as a solution-driven strategist, a bridge-builder, and a quiet force for national development.

His conferment has been met with widespread acclaim across Taraba State and beyond, with many hailing it as both timely and well-deserved. For the Mambilla people, the appointment reaffirms the commitment of the traditional council to recognizing homegrown excellence and building a leadership legacy that reflects both tradition and innovation.

In the words of a community elder at the Gembu palace, "The title of Madaki has found a worthy bearer. Abdulrahman Leme represents the best of what it means to serve with humility, intellect, and heart."

As the new Madaki Mambilla, Leme joins a distinguished lineage of titleholders tasked with safeguarding the interests of the people, promoting peace, and strengthening the cultural heritage of the Mambilla Plateau. It is a role he appears poised to carry with honour, humility, and distinction.