By Ali Abbare
In the typical narrative of Nigerian politics, the transfer of power is often a prelude to discord—a period where predecessors are sidelined, legacies are contested, and the wheels of progress grind to a halt amidst fresh rivalry. Nasarawa State, however, tells a different and profoundly refreshing story.
Under the leadership of Governor Abdullahi Sule, the state has meticulously crafted an alternative model, one built on the foundational pillars of seamless succession and deliberate, respectful partnership with past leaders, most notably his political mentor, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-makura. This conscious departure from the norm is not merely a political courtesy; it is the very engine that has driven a consistent agenda of stability and development.
As the nation’s political temperature begins to rise ahead of the 2027 elections, the Nasarawa model stands as a critical testament to the power of unity over division, offering both a compelling legacy to protect and a clear path for other states to follow.
The moment now calls not for testing this hard-earned stability, but for consolidating it, ensuring that the state continues to build rather than risk tearing down what this exemplary leadership has achieved.Governor Sule has, from his very first day in office, demonstrated an uncommon affinity towards those who walked the path before him.
He has consistently extended the olive branch, ensuring that his predecessors, especially Senator Al-makura, are not sidelined but are valued stakeholders whose wisdom and experience are crucial for the state’s journey. At every given opportunity, Governor Sule makes it clear that building the state is a collective task, one that requires the hands of all who have led before.
This is not a political calculation, but a reflection of his inherent democratic integrity—a deep-seated belief that every critical stakeholder deserves maximum respect and consideration.
This affable and inclusive style of leadership, however, should never be mistaken for weakness. In any democracy, and especially as the general election approaches, differing ambitions and visions naturally surface.
Some vested interests, observing the governor’s accommodating nature, may seek to test his resilience, perhaps interpreting his respect as an opening for disruption.
As Nasarawa marches purposefully towards the 2027 general elections, this moment calls above all for unity and togetherness.
It is a time to consolidate, not a time for the conflagration that some speculators, jostling for political space, might hope to ignite. Political realignment as elections near is to be expected, but within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nasarawa, such movements should be harnessed to strengthen the party’s gains, not exploited for narrow, ulterior motives.
The APC in Nasarawa State has a unique and proud history. It was, in many ways, a political laboratory for the party’s emergence and growth. Today, under Governor Sule’s steady hand, the state has matured into a shining example of the party’s ethos and vision manifesting successfully at the subnational level.
This did not happen by accident. It is the fruit of deliberate, purposeful leadership that prioritizes development over drama, and collective advancement over individual grandstanding. Those now maneuvering for position and relevance must therefore be cautioned.
This is not the hour for unnecessary bickering or unwarranted political vendetta. Such actions only serve to undermine the very foundation upon which the state’s current stability is built.
The path forward is clear. This is the time to come together, to set aside purely individual interests, and to rally behind the leadership that has steered the state with such clear purpose. Governor Sule has demonstrated through action that his focus is on building a greater Nasarawa for all its citizens.
The infrastructure projects, the focus on agriculture and investment, the pursuit of security and peace—all these are bricks in a lasting edifice. Our duty now is to add more bricks, not to pull down the walls. Every leader who truly has the state’s interest at heart must consciously avoid any action capable of derailing the growth of the party and the state.
We have only one Nasarawa State. It is our common home, our shared inheritance, and our collective responsibility.The coming elections will be a chapter in our history, but they will pass. Nasarawa State will remain long after 2027 has come and gone.
The question before us is what kind of state we will leave behind. Will it be one fractured by needless political battles, or one strengthened by a legacy of respectful succession and united purpose? The example has already been set.
Governor Sule has shown that strength lies in respect, that progress is born from continuity, and that true leadership welcomes the counsel of all.
Let us all, therefore, come together to support this proven leader and build upon the solid foundation of peace and progress that has been laid. Let us choose to build, not to destroy. For in that choice lies the enduring greatness of Nasarawa
