Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, has explained that the state’s diverse ethnic and religious landscape has prompted the All Progressives Congress (APC) to adopt a consensus ideology for the upcoming local government elections across the state’s 13 local government areas.
In an interview with selected senior editors from the Abuja Editors Forum at the Government House in Lafia, Sule stated, “The complicated nature of our multi-ethnic and multi-religious society has compelled the APC to adopt consensus in the forthcoming local government elections. We are an extension of Plateau State, and our ethnic diversity surpasses theirs. We aim to create an inclusive government that considers all groups.”
Sule acknowledged the challenges of managing a consensus approach, noting, “Nasarawa State’s complexity arises from its diverse ethnicities and religions. In striving for inclusivity, we must adopt this consensus ideology, although it presents significant challenges. Local government elections, in particular, require careful management.”
He remarked on the political climate, stating, “In Nigeria, and Nasarawa State is no exception, politicians often believe they must win elections. If they do not, they claim the elections were rigged. Conversely, if they win, they assert it was fair.”
Reflecting on his journey to the governorship, Sule recounted his previous role as Group Managing Director of Dangote Sugar Refinery.
He expressed initial reluctance to enter politics due to distrust of politicians, fearing they might exploit him. However, after deciding to run for office, he engaged Kule Elekute from KKMG to conduct a comprehensive survey of Nasarawa State. Sule admitted he lacked in-depth knowledge of the state, having spent much time studying and working abroad.
“I studied in the US and worked in Lagos, so I didn’t have enough familiarity with Nasarawa State. After Kule and his team conducted a six-month survey, I felt prepared to enter the gubernatorial race, and by the grace of Almighty Allah, I became the governor,” he stated.
Regarding road development, Sule emphasised his commitment to improving rural infrastructure, stating that he grew up in a village and understands the importance of rural life. “The wealth of Nasarawa State lies in its villages, where farming and mineral resources are abundant,” he added. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering rural dwellers, ensuring inclusivity in governance.
On the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Sule noted that his administration has not taken out bank loans for developmental projects since he took office in 2019. He highlighted a significant increase in IGR, stating it has risen from N7.7 billion to N20 billion during his tenure.
“My administration has done enough to boost the IGR, and we are exploring additional revenue sources, leveraging our proximity to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, “ he explained.
Addressing security concerns, Sule acknowledged that the state has faced various criminal activities, including banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder clashes. However, he claimed that security has significantly improved, allowing citizens to sleep peacefully.
