Ahmed Aliyu Wadada: From Senator To Governor A Proven Track Record By Alhaji Suleh Manga, Karu

 

As Nasarawa State approaches the 2027 election cycle, the question on many minds is: who among the aspiring leaders can truly deliver progress not just for a segment of the state, but for all of us? In my view, Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada stands out as a candidate whose record, character, and vision position him as a strong contender for leadership. This is not a tribal or ethnic preference, but rather an informed judgment based on values, competence, and what our state needs. 

1. From Senator To Governor A Proven Track Record: 

Senator Wadada who currently represents Nasarawa West in the National Assembly has over the years navigated shifting political landscapes, previously leaving his former party over concerns of fairness in internal democracy, then winning his Senate seat on the platform of another party by popular support. His political journey reflects a man who values accountability and transparency, even at personal cost.

From his earlier days as a member of the House of Representatives representing Karu/Keffi/Kokona Federal Constituency to his current role, Senator Wadada has been involved in legislation and representation that resonates with the ordinary citizen’s needs. This breadth of experience in governance on the ground level and at the national level offers a foundation for leadership that many aspirants cannot match.

Moreover, Senator Wadada has made clear his intention to contest for the governorship in 2027. I believe this ambition comes not out of personal aggrandizement, but out of a desire to serve and build on the gains already made in Nasarawa. 

2. Building on Solid Foundations The Nasarawa Agenda Already in Motion

Our state under the current administration of Governor Abdullahi A. Sule has made commendable progress. Through his leadership, Nasarawa has embarked on a transformative path toward industrialization, infrastructural development, economic reforms, and social investments.

• The establishment of the Nasarawa Investment and Development Agency (NASIDA) and activation of the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS) have laid the groundwork for systematic development, attracting investments and facilitating industrial growth

• Infrastructure: Roads connecting rural and urban areas, feeder roads to farmland, and strategic corridors like the Mararaba Udege road and Sisin-Baki Farin Ruwa routes have opened up access and unlocked economic potential.

• Industry and Mining: The push for value addition in agriculture and mining rather than mere raw export is positioning Nasarawa as an emerging industrial hub.

• Social Services: Investments in education, health, and social welfare are slowly changing the quality of life for ordinary citizens.

These are strides worth consolidating. It is not enough to recognize them; what we need is continuity, expansion, and a leader who sees beyond immediate gains to sustainable, inclusive growth. That is where, in my opinion, Senator Wadada fits in.

3. Character, Integrity, and a Commitment to Unity:

From what I know of Senator Wadada personally and professionally, he is a man of clean heart, free from malice, and deeply humane in outlook. He is not someone who seeks to divide; rather, he seems genuinely committed to the welfare of the entire state, regardless of ethnic or tribal lines.

He combines calm resolve with optimism and resilience—qualities needed in a time when Nasarawa demands steady governance, consistent development, and fairness. I have seen how he deals with challenges: with dignity, patience, and hard work. These are not small virtues. In politics and governance, especially in a diverse state like ours, goodwill and inclusivity are often more powerful than raw power or rhetoric.

Furthermore, his background demonstrates humility, service, and a willingness to listen—traits that should define leadership in our state today. His approach suggests that he doesn’t view the governorship as a birthright, but as a mandate to serve, build, and bring people together.

4. Why 2027 Needs a Nasarawa Agenda Not A Divisive Ethnic Agenda: 

It is easy in Nigerian politics to be drawn into ethnic, religious, or sectional bargains. But Nasarawa is more than any one group: we are a mosaic of communities, traditions, and aspirations. What we need now is unity, balanced development, and a leadership that sees all parts of the state as equal stakeholders.

Senator Wadada, in my view, represents that possibility. I firmly believe that under his leadership, Nasarawa can continue and build upon the progress begun under Governor Sule. The idea is not to start afresh, but to sustain and expand what works: infrastructure, industrialization, youth and community empowerment, social services. Projects should not be left incomplete just because of a change in leadership; continuity matters. This is the “Nasarawa agenda” I believe in.

5. A Personal Appeal For Thoughtful Judgment, Not Blind Loyalty:

Let me be clear: this is my personal view. It is not a call to blind loyalty, but to thoughtful judgment. I call on our people across towns, communities, local governments to look at leadership not through the lens of narrow loyalties, but through the lens of competence, integrity, track record, and a genuine desire for collective progress.

If Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada aspires to lead us in 2027, let us weigh his merits carefully. Let us ask ourselves: Do we want someone who will unite, build, and deliver? Or someone whose first loyalty is to a narrow group or interest? I believe in unity. I believe in Nasarawa. And I believe Wadada, in his character, vision, and history, represents the best chance for us to grow together.

May Allah guide Nasarawa State to peace, prosperity, and fairness for all. 

Alhaji Suleh Manga Is The Chairman Of Maliya Cattle Market, Karu