By Francis Nansak, Lafia
Nasarawa State has made significant strides in infrastructure development since 2011, rivalling oil-rich states in Nigeria’s South-South region.
The Engr Abdullahi Sule administration has fulfilled promises of economic growth through agriculture, mining, and in recent petroleum discoveries, setting the state on the path of prosperity.
In education, Governor Sule has demonstrated commitment to upliftment, by donating ₦200 million to the state university’s faculty of engineering which brought about it establishment with full accreditation, and payment of counterpart funding for primary education under the Universal Basic Education program to ensure standard across the state.
Healthcare has also seen improvements, with three tertiary health institutions and the recent donation of three brand new dialysis machines to FUTH Lafia,aimed at bridging the gap in medical tourism to access dialysis challenges by the people in need of such service.
Road infrastructure has been prioritized,just recent ₦1 billion was allocated for 1km roads to each of the 13 LGA, linking villages to urban areas. The administration has also embarked on underpass flyover bridges in Lafia, Akwanga, and Keffi.With additional one at karu.
Given these accomplishments, the next governor should focus on sustaining development. It is imperative that Engr Sule’s successor should be a philanthropist with a people-centric approach, known for a standing history in supporting the poor and underprivileged in the society,whose wealth is not earned from public service ,but privately owned and willingly shared not for political gains.
While a number of persons have indicated interest to succeed the outgoing governor of Nasarawa State continue to swell it is pertinent to state that continuing on already existing projects and programmes in the state need a philanthropy who can delve into human capital development.
The current agitation by Nasarawa West stakeholders for a governorship slot in 2027 should be considered, given the existence of politicians with proven philanthropic records and a history of supporting their people.
These individuals have established foundations and demonstrated loyalty to their communities, making them suitable candidates.
Nasarawa State demands leadership that empowers, employs, and develops its youth, leveraging on existing institutions for economic growth.
The next governor should prioritize citizens’ welfare, boost state resources, and foster international relationships for development, rather than seeking personal gain.
This, if most be considered ,come April when the ruling All progressive congress with the highest numbers of aspirants seeking to bear the party flag either by consensus or delegate election behoves on the leader of the party and incumbent governor to think outside the box and support his successor with a track record of humanitarian service , a philanthropist of note and one who is accessible and has mass support and acceptability.
The masses most also shine their eyes to avoid white wash politicians who becomes notable only when they want their interest protect and consider those that has standing relationship with the people wether in government or outside elective position
