Ahmed Wadada’s Appeal for Support in APC Primary Elections
As the primary elections of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 general election draw closer, Ahmed Wadada, the preferred successor of Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, has made a public appeal to stakeholders and party leaders for their support. This move comes as part of his campaign to position himself as the next leader of the state.
Wadada, who currently represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District at the National Assembly, addressed this call during a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Nasarawa State Council, on Sunday in Lafia, the state capital. His speech emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in ensuring a successful transition of leadership.
A Call to Higher Service and Disciplined Leadership
During the event, Wadada highlighted that the decision by Governor Abdullahi Sule goes beyond mere political endorsement. He described it as a call to higher service, disciplined leadership, and commitment to the people of Nasarawa State. According to him, the governor has demonstrated exceptional wisdom in managing the political and developmental landscape of the state, which is why he feels deeply honored to be entrusted with the responsibility of building on his legacy.
Wadada expressed gratitude to Governor Sule for his confidence and also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the warm welcome during their recent visit. He extended appreciation to fellow aspirants, noting that their aspirations reflect a shared commitment to the progress of Nasarawa State. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in advancing their common vision.
Unity and Shared Vision
At this defining moment, Wadada called on all stakeholders, party leaders, aspirants, supporters, and citizens to come together in unity. He stressed that the task ahead requires collective ownership, a shared vision, and disciplined execution. His message was clear: the state must move forward not as individuals or factions but as one Nasarawa, committed to stability, progress, and shared prosperity.
He also extended his gratitude to the state’s traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth, women, and community stakeholders, acknowledging their steadfast support, guidance, and role in sustaining peace, unity, and social cohesion. These groups remain central to the stability and progress of the state.
The ‘HEARTS’ Agenda: A Blueprint for Development
While unveiling his blueprint to journalists, Wadada outlined the ‘HEARTS’ Agenda, a structured, people-centred governance framework designed to deliver inclusive growth and shared prosperity. This agenda is anchored on six interconnected pillars:
- Human Capital Development
- Energy and Mineral Resources
- Agriculture and Green Economy
- Rural and Urban Renewal
- Trade and Investment
- Security
Wadada explained that this vision is not about starting anew but about finishing strong and scaling impact. It builds on the institutional foundations laid by previous leaders, including Senator Abdullahi Adamu, Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma, Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, and Governor Abdullahi A. Sule. The ‘HEARTS’ Agenda aims to bridge the gap between legacy and innovation, anchored on continuity, strengthened by reform, and driven by measurable results.
Positioning Nasarawa as a Model of Governance
Wadada emphasized that together, they have the opportunity to position Nasarawa State as a model of continuity, consolidation, and performance-driven governance. With strong institutions, coordinated delivery systems, and inclusive economic growth, they will unlock new opportunities across the state.
He added that their commitment is to deepen development outcomes, expand economic opportunities, and secure a future that delivers tangible improvements in the lives of the people across the three zones of Nasarawa South, North, and West.
Political Developments and Concerns
PUNCH Online had reported that Wadada recently paid a courtesy visit to the residence of former Governor Al-Makura to seek his blessings for the upcoming APC governorship primary election and general election. However, Al-Makura revealed that he was not consulted by the incumbent governor, Sule, before the announcement of Wadada as the preferred candidate.
Al-Makura expressed concern over recent political developments in the state, particularly the issue of early endorsements. He urged politicians to exercise caution and avoid actions that could violate electoral guidelines ahead of the APC primaries. He described the recent pronouncement by Sule as premature, warning that such a move could undermine due process within the party.
According to Al-Makura, the APC has yet to commence the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms. He stressed that any endorsement at this stage amounts to “jumping the gun” before the formal process of producing aspirants begins.
