The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Sule

  • Sule, Otti, Soludo, Adeleke, Aiyedatiwa, Abiodun, Zulum, Yusuf sign 2026 budgets into Law

    Sule, Otti, Soludo, Adeleke, Aiyedatiwa, Abiodun, Zulum, Yusuf sign 2026 budgets into Law

    • Nasarawa to spend N545.2b, Abia N1.016tr, Anambra N765b, Osun N723b, Ondo N524.4b, Ogun N1.668tr, Borno N890.33b, Kano N1.47tr

    Eight governors yesterday assented to their states’ 2026 Appropriation Bills.

    They are: Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Alex Otti (Abia), Chukwuma Soludo (Anambra), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babagana Zulum (Borno), and Kabir Abba Yusuf (Kano).

    In Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, Governor Sule signed into law N545.2 billion tagged: “Budget of Strategic Consolidation” passed by the House of Assembly.

    The governor submitted N517.5 billion to the House of Assembly, but the lawmakers increased it by N27.6 billion.

    The signing ceremony was at the Conference Hall of the Government House.

    The governor hailed the Speaker and other lawmakers for the speedy passage of the State document.

    He promised that the state would witness more people-oriented projects, programmes and policies next year.

    Sule also promised effective implementation of the budget and strict adherence to the budgetary provisions.

    Speaker Danladi Jatau assured the governor of the commitment of the lawmakers to work for the interest of the people.

    “The budget has passed through all legislative processes and committee’s scrutiny before it was passed into law,” he said.

    The Speaker called for more synergy and support among all arms of government for the betterment of the state and its people.

    The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hajiya Munirat Abdullahi, gave an overview of the budget and its breakdown.

    “The Capital Expenditure is N316.265,270,661.07 billion and the Recurrent Expenditure is N228.717,880,249.07 billion respectively,” she said.

    READ ALSO; Imperatives of Tinubu’s second term and transformative initiatives

    In Abia State, Governor Otti signed N1.016tr 2026 budget into law in Nvosi Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area after its passage by the House of Assembly.

    The governor assured the people that his administration would faithfully implement the budget and sustain the momentum of accelerated development across the state.

    He described the process as a testament to democratic engagement, transparency and diligence between the Executive and the Legislative arms of government.

    Otti hailed the House of Assembly for its thorough scrutiny of the Appropriation Bill, noting that the time taken to review it was an indication of seriousness and commitment to the interests of Abians.

    “I’m very glad that this House pays attention to details, not just a House that would pass a bill without asking questions.

    “I’m not unaware of the engagements going back and forth between the Executive team and the Legislative team.

    “And that is what democracy should be about. Questions should be asked and numbers should be scrutinized. Two good heads, they say, are better than one.

    “That this Bill took a little bit of time to pass is also a plus. It shows that some work was being done. And it also puts the executive on his toes to ensure that he continues to up their game, to produce numbers that can be valued for,” he said.

    “This is a disciplined government and it will stick to the budget that has been approved. If there is any reason for anything to change, we will still come back to you with a legitimate defence.”

    Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa described the 2026 budget as a “Project of Acceleration and New Possibilities”.

    He noted that the state was nearing “ground zero” after years of infrastructural and developmental challenges.

    “That is why we are beginning to accelerate. I do believe that we have started and we are not going to slow down until this place is completely transformed,” he added.

    In Awka, the Anambra State capital, Governor Soludo assented to N765 billion 2026 Appropriation, Correctional Bills and two others into law.

    The other Bills the governor signed into law are: Anambra State Mission Schools of Nursing and Midwifery, the Anambra State Taxes, Levies and Presumptive Tax and the Anambra State Correctional Services Law, 2025.

    The event was held at Anambra State’s Light House.

    A statement by the governor’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, said the House of Assembly increased the Appropriation Bill by N8 billion. Soludo had submitted N757 billion, while it was raised by the lawmakers to N765 billion.

    Assenting to the laws, the governor said: “This budget is more than numbers — it is a strategic plan crafted to deliver on our administration’s promises.

    “We have focused on what truly matters to the people, ensuring that resources are allocated to meet the critical needs in our communities.”

    Giving the lawmakers a pat on the back for doing a good jo, Soludo said: “Our productive partnership with the House of Assembly has been crucial.

    “Their thoroughness and cooperation have helped deliver laws that will accelerate the development and prosperity of Anambra State.

    “We submitted draft appropriation of N757 billion but in their wisdom after various reviews, the budget size very slightly increased to N766 billion for the 2026 fiscal year. So, we now get to work.

    “Transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance are not just ideals; they are the bedrock of our government.

    “By enacting these laws, we are creating the enabling environment for effective service delivery and sustainable growth.”

    In Osogbo, the Osun State capital, Governor Adeleke assented to ₦723 billion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law in the presence of Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi; Speaker Adewale Egbedun; the Chief of Staff, Kazeem Akinleye; the Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina, and members of the State Executive Council (Exco).

    The House of Assembly had passed ₦723,454,988,670.00 the budget christened ‘Budget of Economic Transformation’ few days ago.

    Assenting to the budget, Adeleke said the budget will consolidate and expand governance and service deliveries in line with the five-point agenda of his administration.

    In a statement by his media aide , Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke said: “This is the final year of our first term with expanded ambitions to complete ongoing projects and launch new initiatives for the good of our people.

    “Our administration has in the last three budget years laid solid foundation for the sustainable development of our dear state. We completed many abandoned projects and launched new ones. We paid billions of naira in pension and salary debt. We targeted workers welfare and approved and implemented payments of promotions arrears and paid many allowances which the previous government neglected.”

    The governor said his team had resolved to consolidate his administration’s achievements across the sectors.

    He said: “The year 2026 is a dual year of renewal of mandate and rolling out of a new agenda for the next four years. The consolidation for 2026 is a year of continuation, of further good governance and of continuity for sustainable governance.

    “Year 2026 is a loaded era as an election year when by God and people, our mandate will be renewed. But we should not allow governance to suffer. We must multi-task.

    “We promise Osun people full implementation of the new appropriation act. I charge each ministries and agencies to follow the established timelines for the budget execution. We will continue to focus on people’s welfare and complete all ongoing projects and programmes.”

    In Akure, the Ondo State capital, Governor Aiyedatiwa assented to N524.4 billion 2026 budget tagged: “Budget of Economic Consolation,” following its passage by the House of Assembly.

    The ceremony was held at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office.

    The budget comprises a recurrent expenditure of N220,830,941,200 (42.11 per cent) and a capital expenditure of N303,579,649,739 (57.89 per cent).

    The governor said the budget underscores his administration’s strong commitment to infrastructure and economic growth.

    Sectoral distribution include: Agricultural Development: N29.6 billion (5.7 per cent), Trade and Industry: N8.7 billion (1.7 per cent), Education: N64.5 billion (12.3 per cent), Health: N59.5 billion (11.4 per cent), Information: N5.5 billion (1.1 per cent), Community Development: N16.3 billion (3.1 per cent), Infrastructural Development: N144 billion (27.6 per cent) and Environment & Sewage Management N8.7 billion (1.7 per cent), Regional Development: N15.5 billion (3.0 per cent), Administration of Justice: N20.5 billion (3.9 per cent), Public Finance: N95 billion (18.1 per cent),General Administration: N35b (6.7 per cent),Legislative Administration: N13 billion (2.5 per cent) and Energy: N7.3 billion (1.4 per cent).

    Aiyedatiwa said the fiscal plan was strategically designed to place the state on the path of sustainable growth while safeguarding the welfare of citizens.

    The governor described the 2026 budget as a strategic blueprint designed to respond effectively to prevailing national economic realities while positioning the state on a path of self-reliance, resilience and enduring prosperity.

    He outlined the sectoral distribution, highlighting the allocations to agricultural development, trade and industry, education, health, information, community development, infrastructural development, environment and sewage management, regional development, administration of justice, public finance, general administration, legislative administration, and energy.

    Aiyedatiwa also highlighted the budget’s key pillars, emphasising agriculture and food security with targeted investments in modern farming, support for smallholder farmers, and improved access to credit.

    He stressed that human capital development and skills enhancement through education, school renovations, teacher training, and digital skills development are also priority.

    He added that economic transformation and infrastructure development, including completion and initiation of critical projects in roads, power, and water supply, will create an enabling environment for businesses.

    Speaker Olamide Oladiji hailed Governor Aiyedatiwa for transforming the state and giving Akure a capital-like appearance.

    He also highlighted the Assembly’s achievements in passing Bills that regulate community activities, prohibiting kidnapping, registering domestic staff, establishing the State Road Fund, and creating coastal and waterways management agencies.

    In Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Governor Abiodun assented to the N1.668 trillion 2026 budget following its passage by the House of Assembly.

    The passage followed the presentation and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, chaired by Mr Musefiu Lamidi (APC-Ado-Odo/Ota II) during plenary at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

    Lamidi, who moved the motion for the adoption of the committee’s report, said the Bill was submitted to the Assembly 26 days earlier and had undergone scrutiny.

    The motion was seconded by Folawewo Salami (APC-Ifo II) and supported by the whole House during plenary presided over by Speaker Oludaisi Elemide.

    The Bill was later read and adopted clause by clause before the Committee of the Whole House; after which the motion for its third reading was moved by the Majority Leader, Yusuf Sheriff (APC-Ado-Odo/Ota I).

    The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Lukman Adeleye (PDP – Odogbolu) and supported by all the lawmakers through a unanimous voice vote.

    The Clerk/Head of the Legislative Service, Sakiru Adebakin, read the Bill for the third time, while Elemide directed that a clean copy be transmitted to the governor for assent.

    Earlier, while Presenting the committee’s report on the bill titled “H.B. No. 028/OG/2025 – Year 2026 Appropriation Bill”, Lamidi said the Assembly made adjustments to the budget proposals of three Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

    Governor Abiodun had, on December 3, presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly for approval.

    In Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, Governor Zulum signed the N890.33 billion into law.

    The governor said the budget was aligned with the state’s 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.

    The budget was christened “Budget of Sustained Recovery and Growth.”

    The governor said the budget comprises N536.56 billion for capital expenditure and N353.77 billion for recurrent expenditure.

    He said funding sources include N317.68 billion from FAAC, N44.30 billion from IGR and N417.23 billion in capital receipts from grants and aid.

    Zulum said the budget assumptions include an oil price benchmark of 64 U.S dollars per barrel, an exchange rate of N1,512 to the dollar and an inflation rate of 18 per cent.

    He said the budget prioritised security, human capital development, infrastructure, social welfare and economic revitalisation, with emphasis on durable solutions for displaced persons and resettled communities.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prudent financial management, due process, and value for money in public spending.

    The governor said the 2026 budget prioritised revenue generation, land administration, emergency management, urban planning, rural electrification, arts and culture, scholarship management, and sustainable development initiatives.

    He said security and durable solutions for displaced persons form the core of his 2026 Appropriation Bill.

    Zulum said the budget provided increased funding for security agencies to consolidate peace through improved welfare, modern equipment and enhanced intelligence gathering.

    He said significant resources were also earmarked for closing remaining IDP camps through the construction of resilient housing, land allocation and livelihood revitalisation in recovered communities.

    According to him, the goal is to transition from humanitarian assistance to sustainable development, ensuring resettled citizens live with dignity, self-reliance and opportunity.

    Zulum reviewed the 2025 fiscal year, citing macroeconomic challenges that affected budget implementation.

    He recalled that the 2025 budget stood at N615.85 billion, comprising N373.67 billion for capital expenditure and N242.17 billion for recurrent expenditure.

    The governor said that assumptions on exchange rate stability and inflation under the Federal Government’s Medium-Term Expenditure Framework were disrupted by prevailing economic realities.

    Despite the challenges, he said the state adopted proactive fiscal measures that ensured continued service delivery, infrastructure development and support to security agencies.

    Responding, the Speaker of the state assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, lauded the achievements made by the governor in the 2025 budget.

    Lawan also assured the governor of the assembly’s determination to pass the budget within a short time.

    In Kano, Governor Yusuf assented to ₦1.477 trillion 2026 budget following its consideration during plenary.

    The passage of the Bill followed its second reading and deliberations in the Committee of the Whole at a sitting presided over by Speaker Jibril Falgore in Kano.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Governor Yusuf had presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the Assembly on November 19 for legislative consideration.

    A breakdown of the approved budget shows that ₦934.6 billion, representing 68 per cent, was allocated to capital expenditure, while ₦433.4 billion, accounting for 32 per cent, was earmarked for recurrent expenditure.

    The capital-to-recurrent ratio is considered one of the highest in the state’s recent fiscal history, reflecting the government’s emphasis on infrastructure and development projects.

    With the passage of the bill, the assembly is expected to transmit the budget to Gov. Yusuf for assent in line with constitutional provisions.

    Also, the assembly also held a valedictory session in honour of its two deceased members, Aminu Sa’ad, who represented Ungogo Constituency, and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who represented Kano Municipal Constituency.

    The lawmakers died in active service on Wednesday, Dec. 24, just hours apart.

    During the session, Speaker Falgore described their demise as a grievous loss to the assembly and the state, noting that the late legislators were committed public servants who contributed significantly to lawmaking and community development.

    He said their dedication to democratic ideals and the welfare of their constituents would remain indelible.

    The Speaker extended condolences to Gov. Yusuf, former Governor, Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the families of the deceased lawmakers, and the entire people of Kano State.

    According to him, the assembly will continue to honour their memories and uphold the values they stood for. (NAN)

  • Sule, Diri, Okpebholo, Oyebanji sign N545.2b, N1.01tr, N415.57b, N939b 2026 budgets into law

    Sule, Diri, Okpebholo, Oyebanji sign N545.2b, N1.01tr, N415.57b, N939b 2026 budgets into law

    Governors Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) yesterday signed the 2026 Appropriation Bills into law. 

    The Nasarawa State House of Assembly passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill of N545.2 billion into law.

    The state lawmakers had jacked up the proposed budget from N517.5 billion to N545.2 billion, indicating a N27.6 billion increase.

    Speaker Danladi Jatau announced the passage of the Bill into law during proceedings in Lafia, the state capital.

    “The Capital Expenditure is N316,265,270,661.07 billion and the Recurrent Expenditure is N228.717,880,249.07 billion,” he said. Jatau urged the executive to ensure full implementation of the budget.

    The Speaker explained that the N27.6 billion increment was due to the current surge of inflation.

    “In the upward review, security votes and services in the Office of the Secretary (SSG) to the State Government and Ministry of Special Duties, Security and Sundry Matters received additional N14 billion, while the Ministry of Local Government got additional N7 billion.

    “The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism received a boost of N3.7 billion and the construction of the 55-kilometre Lafia-Kwandere-Garaku road, among others,” he added.

    READ ALSO: Street naming racket

    Majority Leader Suleiman Yakubu Azara moved the motion for the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law and Minority Leader Luka Iliya Zhekaba seconded the motion. The lawmakers unanimously passed the Appropriation Bill into law.

    In Bayelsa State, Governor Diri signed the state’s 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1.016 trillion into law alongside six other Bills.

    The other legislations are: the Rural Access Funds Law 2025, Rural Access Road Authority Law 2025, Water Sector Law 2025, Statistics Law 2025, Harmonised Taxes and Levies Approved List for Collection Law 2025 and the Bayelsa Medical University Amendment Law 2025.

    The governor said N998.371 billion was initially presented to the House of Assembly on November 13 for scrutiny and approval.

    He said after a careful perusal and consultation with the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Assembly increased it by N17.7 billion, representing 1.77 per cent.

    Diri assured the people that his administration would ensure the full implementation of the 2026 budget, as he was able to keep to the budget cycle of January to December in the outgoing year.

    He thanked the lawmakers for the timely passage of the Bills, stressing that the cooperation among the three arms of government would enable them to continue to address the developmental challenges of the state.

    “Let us continue to keep this mutual understanding and relationship to foster sustainable growth and development of our state. But, of course, there must be checks and balances.

    “If there is any implementation that is not going on well, exercise your powers to ensure that this law is adhered to. On our part, we will try our best to ensure full implementation of this Appropriation Law 2026,” Diri told the lawmakers.

    Presenting the Bills, Speaker Abraham Ingobere said the “Budget of ASSURED Prosperity II” was more than just a piece of legislation but a symbol of appreciation for the strides the state had made in improving the lives of the residents through infrastructure development, healthcare, public utilities, education, and agriculture, among others.

    In Edo State, Governor Okpebholo said the “Budget of Hope and Growth” would take the state to greater heights.

    Last week, the governor presented the N939 billion Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly for scrutiny and passage.

    The Assembly passed the budget into law after an interface with relevant commissioners and government agencies.

    Speaker Blessing Agbebaku noted that the governor has transformed the state, saying the people benefited from his practical governance style.

    He said: “History has been made by this administration. You are hungry to develop Edo State. Your administration is building the first and second flyover bridges in Edo State and you will be remembered by the people because these are landmark projects.”

    In Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji assented to the 2026 budget of N415.573 billion.

    The governor also signed two other Bills – Ekiti State Revenue Administration Law, 2025, and the Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti Bill, 2025 – into law.

    The governor described the three legislations as critical to the realisation of his administration’s shared prosperity agenda.

    He said the development was a product of collaboration between the executive and legislative arms.

    Oyebanji noted that the timely passage of the budget would ensure the sustenance of the January–December fiscal cycle in line with global best practices.

    The governor said the “Budget of Sustainable Governance” stood at N415,572,070,139.44, with 47 per cent allocated to Capital Expenditure and 53 per cent to Recurrent Expenditure.

    He explained that the budget was prepared after wide consultations with the people and that it aligned with the six pillars of his administration, which were derived from the Ekiti State Development Plan 2021–2050.

    Oyebanji stressed that the priority areas in the 2026 fiscal year include the completion of ongoing projects, food security, wealth creation and infrastructural development.

    The governor said the budget would also help his administration to consolidate its achievements as it approaches the end of its first term in office.

    He said the new legislation on Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, repealed the former College of Health Sciences and Technology Law of 2019, effectively upgrading the institution to a polytechnic.

    The governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Ekiti State.

    He assured the residents that his administration would continue to pursue policies aimed at improving the welfare and prosperity of the people.

  • Why I established Nasarawa State Education Trust Fund – Sule

    Why I established Nasarawa State Education Trust Fund – Sule

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has said the establishment of the Nasarawa State Education Trust Fund is aimed at bridging gaps in the state’s education system.

    He made this known on Wednesday at the Government House, Lafia, during the inauguration of the fund’s governing board and the swearing-in of the chairman of the Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC).

    Sule explained that while the state has continued to invest in basic education through counterpart funding with the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), the scope of the board is limited to only basic education. He said the trust fund was created to address wider needs across the sector.

    “With massive investment in education, Nasarawa will produce the infrastructure and manpower needed to overhaul the system,” he stated, stressing that the initiative is part of his administration’s commitment to providing quality education for children and nurturing future leaders.

    The governor inaugurated former Secretary to the State Government, Timothy Anjide, as chairman of the Education Trust Fund board, while Ayuba Usman Wandai was sworn in for a second term as chairman of NASIEC.

  • 2027: Nobody will dictate my successor, Gov Sule warns appointees

    2027: Nobody will dictate my successor, Gov Sule warns appointees

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has declared that no individual will dictate who succeeds him in 2027, stressing that anyone nursing such an idea “has a mental problem.”

    Speaking at a one-day sensitization workshop for political appointees on Thursday in Lafia, Sule revealed that he already has someone in mind as his preferred candidate but will disclose it at the right time.

    The governor, who read the riot act to his appointees, warned that any political officeholder openly aligning with governorship aspirants would be sacked immediately.

    “Your loyalty is here. If you decide you can’t do it the way I’m doing it, resign and follow your chosen aspirant. The day I see any of you with any of the aspirants, you are fired,” he cautioned.

    Read Also: 2027: Sule contemplates Senate bid amidst pressure from constituents

    Sule dismissed insinuations that powerful individuals could influence his decision, insisting that no one has the authority to dictate to him.

    “If anybody thinks someone can tell me what to do, that person should be taken to a mental hospital,” he declared.

    The governor assured that his choice of a successor will not be based on personal gain but on the candidate’s ability to consolidate the state’s development.

    “We need somebody who can hold investors together, work with diplomacy and respect, and continue the progress of Nasarawa State,” he said.

    In their remarks, APC State Secretary, Yarius Dagusa, and the Secretary to the State Government, Labaran Shuaibu Magaji, urged political appointees to defend government policies and keep institutional memory alive.

    Earlier, Special Adviser on Political Affairs and Chairman, Forum of Aides to the Governor, Hon. Muhammad Baba Shehu, emphasized teamwork as the foundation of the administration’s success.

  • 2027: Sule warns governorship aspirants against early campaigns in Nasarawa

    2027: Sule warns governorship aspirants against early campaigns in Nasarawa

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has expressed concern over the premature campaigns by governorship aspirants seeking to succeed him, describing the move as a violation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.

    His Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, made this known yesterday during the monthly press briefing at the NUJ State Secretariat in Lafia. 

    He said the governor is worried that aspirants from not only the All Progressives Congress (APC) but also other political parties have embarked on full-scale campaigns despite the absence of INEC’s timetable.

    Ahemba explained that Governor Sule views the development as a major distraction to his administration, stressing that political activities should wait until INEC officially releases guidelines.

    Read Also: 2027: Sule contemplates Senate bid amidst pressure from constituents

    The governor, therefore, urged aspirants across all political parties to respect the laws of the land and suspend political campaigns or consultations until the electoral commission gives the go-ahead.

    Checks revealed that campaign posters and billboards of former Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu, Senator Ahmed Wadada, former NPHCDA Executive Secretary Dr. Faisal Shuaib, State Accountant General Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed, and former NASENI Executive Chairman Engr. Mohammed Sani Haruna have already flooded parts of Nasarawa under the APC.

    Similarly, posters of Barr. Hassan Mohammed, immediate past Minister of Environment under the Buhari administration, and David Umbugadu of the PDP, are also visible across the state.

  • 2027: Sule contemplates Senate bid amidst pressure from constituents

    2027: Sule contemplates Senate bid amidst pressure from constituents

    In less than two years, some governors in their second term will end their tenure, and bid farewell to the seat of power of their various states. In Nasarawa State, the people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District say Governor Sule is not tired, as they still want him to remain relevant in the political limelight, and should represent them at the Senate in 2027. In this piece, our Nasarawa State Correspondent LINUS OOTA, traces the idea behind the clamour for such agitation.

    As Nigeria gradually approaches the defining year of 2027, political permutations are already gathering momentum across the country. In Nasarawa State, the most talked about is the heavy pressure by traditional leaders, stakeholders across party lines , past and present political appointees and elected office holders, religious leaders, youths and women groups, from Nasarawa North Senatorial District are giving Governor Abdullahi Sule sleepless nights that he must  represent them at the Senate.

     Some political analysts have been pointing out what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands to gain in 2027 if Governor Sule is elected into the Senate.

     Sule has been vocal and consistent in defending the Tax Reforms and Subsidy Removal policies of President Tinubu, whom some Nigerians describe as harsh economic policies on Nigerians, but Governor Sule has consistently maintained that the actions of President Tinubu has helped the country in no small measures in revamping the economy.

     The governor had in January 2024 after the Supreme Court Judgement declaring him legitimate winner of the 2023 Governorship election in the state, proclaimed that he was  done with political contest in his life as he was only interested in becoming Governor of Nasarawa State and not any other political office, not even the president of Nigeria.

     He disclosed this in January 2024 while speaking on his victory at the Supreme Court during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, said, “I came in only to be a governor; I did not come in to be a Chairman, a senator or a member of the House of Representatives. I don’t have any dreams for those offices.

     “I have no dream of becoming even President; I have no dreams for that. I can tell you categorically that Abdullahi Sule would not go for Senate after leaving office. By the time I finish my eight years, I can do whatever I want to do,” Sule had said in January 2024.

     The video of the Channels interview went viral on social media especially amongst residents of the State, a development that got the people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District worried apparently.

     Barely a year and half of such declaration by the governor, stakeholders both within and outside the Senatorial zone are mounting pressure on Governor Abdullahi Sule to recent that declaration, insisting that he must run for the Senatorial seat, describing that decision as great disservice to humanity, to God that he worship, and above all the good people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

     However, by 2027, there is going to be a vacuum in the Senatorial slots for Nasarawa North following the ill health of the current occupant of the seat, Senator Godiya Akwashiki. Senator Akwashiki adjudged to be the most performing Senator the zone ever produced in history had stood by his people in both difficult times and in attracting real democratic dividends.

     Akwashiki was elected into the Senate in 2019 on the platform of the APC after serving as Majority leader of Nasarawa State House of Assembly between 2011-2015 and Deputy Speaker of the Assembly between 2015-2019. He was re-elected  into the Senate in 2023 on the platform of the SDP before he got ill rendering him ineffective.

     Due to ill health, his effectiveness at the Senate is no longer been felt by his people at home, and the entire people of the zone ranging from religious leaders, traditional rulers, party chieftains, former and serving political office holders across party lines, youths and women groups are therefore craving for someone that will continue from where Senator Akwashiki stopped.

     And because of the strategic importance of President Tinubu’s economic policies and the deep understanding of such policies by Governor Abdullahi Sule, many people believe that having him at the Senate to dissect the nitty gritty of such economic policies on the floor of the next Senate in 2027 will not only help the president maintain the momentum of his Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerians but will put the Senatorial zone on the world map.

    Read Also: Senate pushes municipal bonds, Sukuk for local govt

     A prominent religious leader, a Christian to be precise, who was part of a recent delegation to the Governor told our correspondent authoritatively that they recently stormed the government house to register their worry concerning the Governor’s stance on the 2027 political contest.

     He said they were there to persuade him to seek an elective post as a mark of their appreciation for the qualitative leadership he has so far given the state and the party, adding that the party’s spirit would be dampened if the Governor refused to go for the Senatorial seat.

     “We are all worried by what we saw on social media concerning what you said about your ambition in 2027. It won’t be fair on our part to you if after all that you have achieved for the state, you do not move ahead to the Senate. We the entire stakeholders of the zone are here by insisting that you must contest the Nasarawa North Senatorial seat.”

     He said that the call on the governor to seek another election after his eight years term is a unanimous stand of the zone and of course the majority of the constituents of Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

     The stakeholders further disclose that going by the early political alignments in the country, they are convinced that Governor Abdullahi Sule’s membership of the Senate in 2027 will drive President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the Senate and he will effectively defend his economic policies.

     As the time approaches , all odds favours Governor Sule for Nasarawa North Senatorial Seat as one does not require any guess work, he stands tall , not just for his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but also for his strategic relevance and unbroken connections.

     He never stood aloof or in outright opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s policies. His commitment to the party, the president, and the idea of national integration makes him not just a participant in the Renewed Hope Project but a pillar of its future success when Bola Ahmed Tinubu is re-elected back as President of Nigeria.

     The tax reform bill championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and opposed by some northern leaders is a major factor for Governor Abdullahi Sule who is versed in economic matters, will use to influence the next national assembly members to support the Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed during his second term in 2027.

     As a second term Governor, Engr Abdullahi Sule is vocal in explaining the significant benefit of the task reform bill now an act to northern Nigeria. He revealed recently that the reforms, particularly the revised Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution formula, would ensure greater equity and fiscal balance across the country.

     “These reforms are a game-changer for northern Nigeria. Under the new VAT sharing formula, 50% will be allocated for equity, 30%, based on derivation, and 20% tied to consumption. This adjustment reflects a fairer system that addresses long standing dispute” Sule said

     The Nigerian Governor’s Forum (NGF) which initially had some reservations of the tax, later announced its support for President Tinubu’s proposal after securing assurances from the President’s Tax Reform  Committee , chaired by Taiwo Oyedele.

     According to Governor Sule, the endorsement came after thorough deliberations and adjustments to the reform framework to accommodate regional and state specific concerns, adding that the discussions surrounding the tax reform bills are intended to uphold President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision rather than criticize or oppose him.

     He explained further that governors like him “have everything to appreciate President Tinubu for making governance easier and more beneficial for them. It is because of the president that today, all the projects we are executing, I’m not borrowing one naira. All the work that you see going on. I did not borrow one naira.

     “I cannot therefore turn around and fight the president who has helped me to look good,” he said.

     Governor Sule has also been vocal about the gains of subsidy removal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that it has increased the allocation of states triple times, therefore enhancing their performance without taking loan especially in Nasarawa State.

     He explained that the subsidy regime under the present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is different from the Petroleum Task Force (PTF) and SURE-P of previous administrations.

     He explained further that the money realised from the removal of subsidy is being ploughed back to the various tiers of governance for development across the states and local government areas.

     According to the governor, unlike in the previous dispensations where monies from subsidy removals were mostly utilised by the federal government, under President Tinubu the monies being realised are being channeled back to the states and local governments for much needed development.

     He expressed appreciation that as a result of the improvement of revenue coming to the states, his administration was able to settle part of the gratuity of members of the forums, a gesture that necessitated the solidarity visit. Some of the elected council officials left office in the 70s and were yet to receive their benefits until now.

     “We must thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.  I saw all kinds of criticisms  about this withdrawal of subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange and where the money is going. These are the kinds of places the money is going to,” he stated.

     He recalled the precarious economic situation he inherited when he became Governor in 2019, with both the state and local government areas only able to pay salaries of workers in percentages.

     “The truth is that, don’t mistake me for criticising anybody. When we came in and met something, I was not trying to criticise anyone. I am just trying to present the facts as they are. We came in when the local government was having difficulty in even paying full salaries. That was the situation we found on the ground. It’s the same thing with pension. Pension both at the local government and the state were having challenges. 

     “When I said that, then you can imagine there is no way these people can have any savings. Because since they don’t have even enough to pay, where will they save? The entire allocation of the local government, sometimes it would be 1bn, their salary was already N1.1bn. Sometimes, it would be a little bit above N2bn, 2.4, 2.3. That was what we met. Today, the local government is boasting of N5bn. That is the situation just that the salary has also increased significantly to over N2bn,” he said.

     Governor Sule dismissed any attempt to compare the previous subsidy regime to the present regime under President Tinubu, stressing that evidence of the distribution and utilisation of the subsidy windfall is visible for all to see across the states and local government areas.

    “Other people said that during Abacha’s time, after withdrawal of subsidy, there was PTF. During Jonathan after withdrawal of subsidy, there was SURE-P. Somebody was challenging why don’t we have similar things now. Our own is different.  Because the money is going to people.

    During the Abacha regime when there was the withdrawal, we did not have dualization of Shendam Road.  We didn’t have dualization in Akwanga.  We never saw dualization in Keffi. We didn’t see any of those. Antau Bridge was collapsing at any given opportunity.  The market in Keffi was witnessing frequent fire outbreaks and consuming the houses of people, their wealth and everything gone. The same thing here in Lafia, Akwanga and elsewhere. 

    “But today, we are not seeing development only in our senatorial zones headquarters, we are seeing development also in every town and some of the rural areas. That is where the money is going. In addition to that, they still have savings. This money that the local government sat down and agreed to pay is from their savings,” he said.

    These and many more are some of the remarkable policies of the Tinubu administration that Engr Abdullahi Sule will defend with his last drop of blood when he gets to the Senate in 2027 and matters like the Tax Reform and fuel Subsidy Removal issues come up for deliberation.

    Recently in Akwanga LGA, the headquarters of Nasarawa North Senatorial district, the stakeholders of the APC gathered in their large numbers and urged Governor Abdullahi Sule who is completing his second term as Governor of the state in 2027 to seek election into the Senate to represent Nasarawa North Senatorial district.

    The endorsement came during the APC stakeholders meeting of Nasarawa North Senatorial district held in Akwanga local government area of the State.

    The commissioner of water resources Hon Muluku Agah Mohammed moved the motion to adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abdullahi Sule as their sole candidates to be elected as President and Senator in 2027, and the Commissioner of Youths and Sports development, Hon Kwanta Yakubu seconded the motion.

    Speaking at the Stakeholders meeting, the Executive Chairman, Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board, NSUBEB Dr Kassim Muh’d Kassim says the decision to send Governor Abdullahi Sule to represent Nasarawa North Senatorial district in the 11th Senate in 2027 is a collective decision of the entire stakeholders of the Nasarawa North Senatorial district.

    He declared their readiness to deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abdullahi Sule, stating that their leadership has brought economic reforms and inclusive governance deserving of continuity .

    “This is a collective decision by all of us to support President Tinubu for a second term, and our Governor, Engr Abdullahi Sule to go to the Senate in 2027, we will mobilize our people to deliver them in 2027”

    “We have  endorsed Governor Abdullahi Sule today  to proceed to the Senate due to his immeasurable achievements, his experience, exposure and network can lead to more efficient and effective legislative business as far as his personality is concerned.

    “Allowing a polished democrat like Governor Sule to represent us at the Senate will provide stability and continuity in governance. We are begging Governor Sule to be our leading light because he has governed us well, he is a  detribalised Nigerian, he is an easy going and indivisible fellow who enjoys interacting with people. Engr Abdullahi Sule is the only Governor in the history of Nigeria that picks strange calls and returns missed calls.

    “A leader that operates an open door policy and people’s friendly leadership styles,  and we can’t afford to lose such a man in the leadership of the northern zone” he said

    He describe the Governor as a honest man who is truthful and transparent in all his dealings with people”he is a man of integrity who adheres to moral and ethical principles and he is very compassionate by identifying and empathizing with struggles and needs of his people and above all, he is a man with confidence as his abilities and decisions often inspires trust and motivate others”

    Reading the communique after the meeting, Former Secretary to State Government, SSG Mr Timothy Anjide “The Stakeholders of the APC in Nasarawa North Senatorial district met in a critical session to deliberate on pressing issues concerning the party, the government, and the future of the district.

    “The meeting was attended by virtually all the key Stakeholders of the APC in the Senatorial district and after extensive and fruitful deliberations, the meeting resolved to acknowledge and appreciate President Tinubu for appointing son’s and daughters of Nasarawa North Senatorial district in to strategic positions in federal agencies, boards and parastatals.

    “In recognition of his vision, leadership and developmental focus, the stakeholders unanimously endorse Mr President for a second term in office.

    “The stakeholders deeply appreciate His Excellency for his unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, impactful developmental strides and consistent support for the APC family in the district.

    “A unanimous vote of confidence was pass on His Excellency, Engr Abdullahi Sule with strong call and appeal to His Excellency to represent Nasarawa North in the Senate come 2027” the communique read

    The meeting was convened  by the Executive Chairman of Akwanga and chairman of ALGON in the state, Hon Safiyanu Isa Andahar, supported by the Chairman of Nasarawa Eggon and Wamba LGAs, the three LGAs make up Nasarawa North Senatorial district.

    All party officials from council wards, LGAs,  State and Zonal officers from the zone attended the endorsement meeting.

    Other Prominent figures in attendance includes Senator John Danboyi, incumbent House of Representative member for Akwanga, Wamba, Nasarawa Eggon federal Constituency Hon Jeremiah Umaru, current members of Nasarawa State House of Assembly from the Zone, all Council Chairmen from the zone, serving commissioners, special advisers,  SSAs, SAs and PAs from the zone, head of government agencies from the zone and all former elected and political appointees from the zone.

  • Why Nasarawa is prone to security challenges, by Sule 

    Why Nasarawa is prone to security challenges, by Sule 

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has said the state remains vulnerable to security challenges in its border communities due to its location among other North Central states facing more severe security threats.

    The governor made the remark on Friday at the Government House, Lafia, while hosting the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Olufemi Oluyede, and his principal officers from the Army Headquarters on a courtesy visit.

    Sule commended the Nigerian Army for relocating the Special Forces Training School from Yobe State to Nasarawa, pledging his administration’s full cooperation with all security agencies to sustain peace in the state.

    He assured the military of his support as host to the new school and lauded the existing synergy between the Special Forces, Operation Whirlstroke, 177 Battalion Keffi, and the Nigerian Police, which he said has been instrumental in maintaining stability across the state.

    Read Also: Nasarawa 2027: God is yet to show me my successor – Sule 

    “We must thank all these security agencies. They have always been very, very supportive. Every time we have this synergy between them, the special forces, the Whirlstroke and the 177, always come together and ensure that we have the support that we need in Nasarawa State.

    “Nasarawa State is sandwiched between states that are having bigger challenges than we do. In the past, Southern Kaduna always had one problem or the other, and we had borders with them. In fact, my local government has borders with them, which is why I am able to know what is happening around Gwantu and the rest of that. 

    “The side of Wamba constantly there are problems with Plateau and Taraba. We have Awe, Keana, and Doma having challenges constantly with Benue. Toto Local Government, sometimes is also having challenges with Kogi,” he added.

    Governor Sule lamented that mostly Abuja bound criminals found it easy to hibernate in the bushes in the state undetected posing security threats.

    “With all these challenges that we are facing, we are still, with all sense of humility and respect, one of the most peaceful states, amongst all these states that I have mentioned. I think we must continue to thank you and thank your forces for the wonderful job they have continued to do and to support us in that direction,” he said.

    Speaker earlier, the COAS, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, said security agencies in the country need more support from the people in order to be able to surmount the security challenges confronting the country. 

    According to the COAS, the Nigerian army represents Nigerians, with soldiers and officers from across each of the 36 states of the federation. 

    “I am always very quick to tell Nigerians that the Nigerian Army represents Nigerians. You will find members of the Nigerian Army from every state of the country. So we belong to Nigerians, to our people. And it is our job to protect Nigerians. We will do our best to do that. But it is important for Nigerians to know that we are not spirits,” he said.

    He pointed out that the army needs more support, especially when you look at their total number against the challenges being faced by the country.

    “When you look at our number, as against the challenges we are facing, I think we need more support from people. We need more support from Nigerians. It is important for us to be supported. Because security is every body’s business, it’s not all about the army, air force, navy or police. If we don’t get the right support from our people, we can’t do much,” he stated.

    The Chief of Army Staff said he was in the state to perform the groundbreaking for the Nigerian Army Special Forces Training School that is being relocated to the headquarters of the special forces in Doma. 

    “The intent is for us to establish the special forces training school within the premises of special forces command. I am here this morning to lay that solid foundation. I believe that would add some value to the state and make the Nigerian Army more efficient in discharging its her duties of protecting Nigerians and making Nigeria itself safer,” he said.

  • Nasarawa 2027: God is yet to show me my successor – Sule 

    Nasarawa 2027: God is yet to show me my successor – Sule 

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has said God is yet to reveal to him who will succeed him in 2027 among the 28 aspirants seeking the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in the state.

    Governor Sule explained that it is even possible the eventual successor has not declared interest, adding, “Maybe the person who may be the governor has not even started. It is also possible. But people see the sincerity in me that I love every one of them, and I am making sure we have somebody who can deliver and carry this state the way we are carrying it now.”

    He made the remarks on Thursday while hosting members of the Forum of Former Local Government Chairmen, alongside members of the Forum of Former Local Government Councillors, during a solidarity visit at the Government House.

    The governor dismissed insinuations that he is backing a particular aspirant, stressing that he has yet to decide on who to support among the contenders.

    “You are hearing from me. I will support the person who has the capacity to deliver these opportunities. Who that person is, God has not shown the person at least to me yet. I’m a friend to every one of them, and I support every one of them coming to contest.

    “During our time in 2019, 11 of us contested, and 10 of them came and supported me without any ambiguity. I’m forever grateful to them for that” he said.

    Read Also: Coalition gang-up can’t stop Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 – Ex-Nasarawa governor’s son

    Governor said he will only support the aspirant that has the capacity to sustain the development strides of his administration, adding that Nasarawa State has enormous potential and that he will only support that aspirant who has the capacity to explore these potentialities.

    “We have done the least that we can do, but we are doing great things for the future. Most of these organizations, in fact, we are only waiting for the president to tell us what day he will select even if he is sending somebody to represent him for the commissioning of the biggest lithium processing plant in the whole of Africa. 

    “The moment he does that, we have opened an opportunity for the state to have an improved IGR. When investors come in, that is when we will continue opening because the number of opportunities in Nasarawa is enormous.

    “We can now move from there to Riri. Riri is going to be the next huge facility, it’s located in Deddere. They have already started the process for the construction. Then we are looking at Amba, which will follow next. Those are the ways we are going.

    “I’m not going to be able to be here when all these are being done. The prayer is that, by the grace of God, whoever is taking over from me will be somebody who will continue to carry the state to make more and more opportunities.

    “This is the reason why if anybody tells you that I’m supporting this, Im supporting that, it’s just grammar. People are just telling their stories. At one time, they said it is Senator Wadada, then, at one point, they said it’s the Accountant General of the State, while others said it’s Dr Faisal Shuaib. If you see people running back and forth like this, you know there is no truth in any of this, it’s just speculation” Governor Sule said 

  • Why Tinubu’s subsidy regime is different, by Sule

    Why Tinubu’s subsidy regime is different, by Sule

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has said that the subsidy regime under the present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is different from the Petroleum Task Force (PTF) and SURE-P of previous administrations.

    He explained further that the money realised from the removal of the subsidy is being ploughed back to the various tiers of governance for development across the states and local government areas.

    Governor Sule made the clarification on Thursday while hosting members of the Forum of Former Local Government Council Chairmen, alongside members of the Forum of Former Local Government Councillors in the state, who came on a solidarity visit to the Government House.

    According to the Governor, unlike in the previous dispensations, where monies from subsidy removals were mostly utilised by the federal government, under President Tinubu, the monies being realised are being channelled back to the states and local governments for much-needed development.

    He expressed appreciation that, as a result of the improvement of revenue coming to the states, his administration was able to settle part of the gratuity of members of the forums, a gesture that necessitated the solidarity visit. Some of the elected council officials left office in the 70s and were yet to receive their benefits until now.

    “We must thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.  I saw all kinds of criticisms about this withdrawal of subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange, and where the money is going. These are the kinds of places the money is going to,” he stated.

    He recalled the precarious economic situation he inherited when he became Governor in 2019, with both the state and local government areas only able to pay the salaries of workers in percentages.

    “The truth is that, don’t mistake me for criticising anybody. When we came in and met something, I was not trying to criticise anyone. I am just trying to present the facts as they are. We came in when the local government was having difficulty even paying full salary. That was the situation we found on the ground. It’s the same thing with a pension. Pensions, both at the local government and the state, were having challenges.

    “When I said that, you can imagine there is no way these people can have any savings. Because they don’t even have enough to pay, where will they save? The entire allocation of the local government, sometimes it would be 1bn, and their salary was already N1.1bn. Sometimes, it would be a little bit above N2bn, 2.4, 2.3. That was what we met. Today, the local government is boasting of N5bn. That is the situation, just that the salary has also increased significantly to over N2bn,” he said.

    Governor Sule dismissed any attempt to compare the previous subsidy regime to the present regime under President Tinubu, stressing that evidence of the distribution and utilisation of the subsidy windfall is visible for all to see across the states and local government areas.

    “Other people said that during Abacha’s time, after the withdrawal of subsidy, there was PTF. After the withdrawal of the subsidy, there was SURE-P. Somebody was challenging why we don’t have a similar thing now. Our own is different.  Because the money is going to people.

     During the Abacha regime, when there was the withdrawal, we did not have dualization of Shendam Road.  We didn’t have dualization in Akwanga.  We never saw dualization in Keffi. We didn’t see any of those. Antau Bridge was collapsing at any given opportunity.  The market in Keffi was witnessing frequent fire outbreaks and consuming the houses of people, their wealth, and everything was gone. The same thing here in Lafia, Akwanga and elsewhere. 

    Read Also: ADC is a rootless split, no threat to APC in 2027 — Gov Sule

    “But today, we are not seeing development only in our senatorial zones headquarters; we are seeing development also in every town and some of the rural areas. That is where the money is going. In addition to that, they still have savings. This money that the local government sat down and agreed to pay is from their savings,” he said.

    The Governor emphasised that the decision to offset part of the gratuity of former council chairmen and councillors was in line with the directive by President Tinubu for governors to ‘wet the ground’, especially in this difficult economic situation.

    “I am so happy really, that we did the little we did, and I had no idea about any meeting to say any thank you whatsoever.  We just felt the need to touch the lives of the people at a very critical time like this. I didn’t know the faces. I didn’t even know it was some of these big people who were there. This is a big joy for me. I thank God we did this. I thank God Almighty that we did this. We did it in line with our hope that we are going to touch the lives of people in this difficult economic period, like this. I have no idea that it is going to touch lives as we expected,” he said.

    The governor assured the members of the two forums that his administration would settle their outstanding balance in the next two or three months, once the local government areas can save sufficient funds to be able to pay.

    In their separate remarks, leaders of the delegation, Hon. Musa Adamu Sa’idu of the forum of former council chairmen and Hon. Hashimu Abubakar, leader of the former elected councillors, all appreciated Governor Sule for his sterling leadership and for carrying the people of the state along. 

  • 2027: I will ensure fairness in who succeeds me – Sule

    2027: I will ensure fairness in who succeeds me – Sule

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has assured critical stakeholders from Nasarawa West Senatorial District of fairness, insisting that, as a product of zoning, he will ensure fairness to all the zones.

    Governor Sule disclosed this when he hosted stakeholders from the Keffi zone who were on a solidarity visit at the Government House.

    According to the Governor, he was a product of zoning and fairness and that by the grace of God, he will be fair in the process leading to the emergence of his successor.

    He recalled that in 2018, stakeholders from his Nasarawa North Senatorial District had to go round the other zones pleading to be given the opportunity to produce the governor of the state in 2019.

    “I will never forget Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, who stood his ground that we must have that opportunity.  He stood his ground and said, ‘No, the Northern zone must produce a governor.’ Thank you, Tanko Al-makura. Thank you, Tanko Al-makura. Thank you, Tanko Al-makura.

    “At the end of the day, all the zones are contested. Every zone, the Northern zone, Western zone, and Southern zone, all contested. God Almighty has destined that I will be the governor.  I am a product of zoning. I am a product of fairness.  I will be fair by the grace of God,” he stated.

     Governor Sule expressed confidence that at the end of the day, with the great prospects ahead for Nasarawa State, the people of Nasarawa West would support his administration once his successor emerges in order to work together for the benefit of the state.

    Read Also: Gov Sule flags off 24.5km Wamba-Nassarawa-Eggon road project

    “I know you came to demand leadership, and I know you have a responsibility that once we have a leader, we will be able to work together to ensure that all these areas of prospects are fully utilised for the benefit of the people of Nasarawa State. 

    That is the whole idea. I heard your message clearly. I am happy with the number of people who turned up here. I know that one day, when we end up having a governor from your side, whoever we have, whether he is here or not, you will continue to remember that these are the people who came begging for this position. These are the people who worked so hard that by the end of the day, I cannot shame them. This is the responsibility that I have that you see me working day and night,” he added.

    Earlier, in the opening remarks, the leader of the delegation and first civilian governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, said the stakeholders from Nasarawa West were at the Government House to seek the support of Governor Sule and his administration towards realising their ambition to produce his successor come 2027.

    Senator Adamu, who is also a former national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), also said they were on a solidarity visit to the Government House to wish the Governor and his administration well.

    “On this visitation, we have two items on our agenda. Our first agenda is to wish you well. And wish this administration well. We wish to thank God Almighty for seeing you through your mandate so far. That your mandate is still in action. Your mandate is still running.

    “The visit is to underline our support for you, for your administration, and for the success of your administration.  We want to say for the umpteenth time that we are all gathered here as your supporters. If there were to be a third term, we would still be with you. Fortunately, or unfortunately, the constitution allows for only two terms of four years each. I lack the right adjectives to qualify your success, your commitment to developing Nasarawa State. Standing ovation to the Governor.

    “Our second agenda is to be here with our arms open, we thank you, we need your support, we need the support of this administration for us to realise our ambition for one of us to be your successor,” Senator Adamu said.