Sule and his six years as Nasarawa’s governor, by Ali Abare 

On May 29, 2025, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State marks six years of visionary leadership, a tenure defined by unprecedented progress, inclusive governance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. 

It is a statement of fact that citizens of the state are witnessing unprecedented development strides being recorded within the six years Governor Sule has been at the helm of affairs of Nasarawa State. Since his inauguration in 2019, Governor Sule is transforming Nasarawa into a guiding light of development, leveraging his private-sector expertise, integrity, and passion for public service.

Indeed, as the Governor marks his sixth-year anniversary in office, his tenure stands out as a testament to visionary leadership rooted in innovation, transparency, and accountability.

Formerly a key private sector player, Governor Sule has redefined governance by merging corporate efficiency with public service ethos, driving unprecedented progress across critical sectors. This analysis explores his unique blend of integrity, openness, and strategic innovation, which has positioned Nasarawa as a beacon of sustainable development in Nigeria.

It is visible for all to see, the inroads recorded in infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, investment and industrialization, and most significantly in accountability and inclusive governance.

All these feats were made possible only because of Governor Sule’s purposeful leadership that is driving sustainable development across the state.

Scholars define purposeful leadership as a modern leadership paradigm that integrates an organization’s core purpose with ethical, value-driven decision-making to inspire collective action and sustainable success. Rooted in both individual and organizational alignment, this approach transcends traditional profit-centric models by emphasizing a deeper “why” that resonates with stakeholders.

They posit that a leader’s purpose explains their “why” of leadership and should be a North Star that provides clarity and direction when navigating the complex situations that come with leadership. A leadership purpose answers the following questions. What do you love to do as a leader? What positive impact do you want to have on the world? What relationships do you want to nurture or establish? What has changed because of your leadership?

A passage from Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll says, “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there,” with the simple quote illustrating the importance of knowing your desired destination in life and work.

Purposeful leadership may sound nebulous, but when a leader understands and lives their unique purpose, just like Governor Sule, there is a clear positive impact for all to see.

Governor Sule is a leader with a purpose. He is a leader who not only knows the road but is determined to reach a predetermined destination. He came prepared after undertaking a holistic study of the prospects and challenges of the state before being elected governor in 2019.

The Governor came into office with a clear vision of desired outcomes as well encapsulated in the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS), essentially because great leaders understand that a clear and meaningful purpose is the foundation for authenticity, motivation, and well-being throughout their leadership journey.

Just like Forbes pointed out, Governor Sule is a leader whose actions align with his purpose, and he remains consistent with his responses, even in a rapidly changing environment. He is so far demonstrated uncommon ability to adapt to meet the ever changing dynamics as presently obtained in the country.

Throughout the past six years of his administration, the people of Nasarawa State have continued to witness the magic that can occur when a capable leader is in a role that aligns with their core purpose. Tremendous progress is being recorded as a magnet for maximizing a leader’s effort, intellect, and emotional and social intelligence.

Even though space may not be sufficient to highlight all his achievements, this milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on his gains, leadership ethos, and the foundation laid for a prosperous Nasarawa State. (To be continued)

Abare is the Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Abdullahi Sule