By Francis Nansak, Lafia
The 30th anniversary of the creation of Nasarawa State is more than a milestone; it is a defining moment for an administration that has measured up in policy, politics and promise-keeping, in an era of insatiable expectations from citizens who want everything at once.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, in his about eighth year in office, has demonstrated that Nasarawa deserves more than political rhetoric, unfulfilled promises and white elephant projects.
On assumption of office in 2019, he prioritized the completion of uncompleted projects inherited from his predecessors while simultaneously embarking on his own legacy projects to add value to the state.
From 2019 till date, Nasarawa has witnessed massive infrastructure development and industrialization driven by private sector partnership with investors from across the world. Today, the state is envied not only by its neighbours in the North Central but has become a tourist and investment hub, attracting investors interested in its rich topography for agribusiness and solid minerals exploration.
It is therefore not surprising that the 30th anniversary celebration, marking the state’s creation on October 1, 1996, was heralded in grand style.
Governor Sule commenced the celebration with commissioning of roads and healthcare facilities constructed by Local Government Councils,a practical demonstration of autonomy for the third tier of government, a policy many states still resist.
This was followed by an anniversary lecture delivered by two distinguished friends of the state: Prof. Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, both of whom have contributed immensely to strengthening the governance structure of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
The highlight of the celebration, however, was the novelty football match between Nasarawa and Plateau States, which appears to have put an end to political differences in the state.
The most notable appearance was that of Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, immediate past governor of the state, who had been absent from key stakeholders’ meetings following the endorsement of Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu as the preferred APC governorship candidate. His presence at the Lafia City Stadium signaled an end to the cold war.
Also in attendance were Senator Abdullahi Adamu, Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, Dr. Silas Agara, Director-General of NDE, Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, Secretary to the State Government Barr. Labaran Magaji, SAN, and Barr. Hassan Liman, among others.
Equally conspicuous was the presence of sons and daughters of Plateau State, including Senator Simon Bako Lalong and former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen. The match, played between executives of Nasarawa and Plateau States, underscored that the Sule administration in nearly eight years has brokered peace not only within Nasarawa but with its neighbours.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sule sued for peace among states in the North Central region and urged politicians to play by the rules and eschew bitterness.
The grand finale at the Lafia Square was marked by hilarity, exchange of banters and reunion of political gladiators.
Analysts say this pattern of celebration may not be witnessed again, as it poses a challenge to the next administration after Engineer Sule exits Government House, Lafia.
However, in the thinking of many citizens, there lies more hope for the state with the right successor.
A political pundit who spoke to our correspondent submitted that the APC is likely to transmit power to Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, whose HEARTS Agenda, he said, is clearly broken down and people-oriented.
“Among all the contestants, his HEARTS Agenda document is clearly broken down for understanding. I want to caution ahead of his victory, God willing, that Senator Wadada keeps to his guiding policy in that document. He has seen what Engineer Sule has done; I believe he will not settle for less, but will work hard to give all citizens a sense of belonging,” the pundit said.
