Sule@65: Celebrating a paragon, an iconoclast, by Ali Abare

Every December 26th stands out as a day we join families, friends, colleagues and well wishers to celebrate the life of our boss, our father and leader, His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule who will turn 65 on December 26th, 2024.

As we join him to celebrate this milestone, especially his crossing the threshold of senior citizenship, the moment accord us the opportunity to commemorate his exemplary leadership and personal commitment to excellence and selfless service.

Born on December 26, 1959, in Gudi Station, Akwanga-West Development Area of Nasarawa State, Governor Sule’s journey to success is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Losing through the ranks, he traversed the labyrinth of industry and manufacture reaching to the top echelon of the private sector.

His experience in the organized private sector, including his tenure as the Managing Director of African Petroleum Plc and Group Managing Director of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, amongst others, has equipped him with the expertise to drive economic growth and development.

As a leader, Governor Sule has shown uncommon leadership qualities, guiding Nasarawa State towards progress and development.

Under his visionary leadership, Nasarawa State has witnessed significant strides in mining, agricultural development, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

His administration’s efforts to promote mining and agricultural growth have attracted investments from major companies, including Gangfeng Lithium Mining Company, Matrix Energy Group, Avatar New Energy Materials Co Ltd, as well as Gudale Farms and Processing Nigeria Limited, Non-Wood Pulp and Paper Making Industry Limited and Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc.

His commitment to infrastructure development is evident in the construction and rehabilitation of urban and rural roads, including the Shinge-Ricemill-Kilema road and the dualization of Shendam Road Junction-Government House-Akurba Road, the N16bn Lafia flyover and underpass, as well as the multibillion naira new state secretariat complex.

As a philanthropist, it is on record that Governor Sule has demonstrated rare concern for the welfare of his people, particularly the vulnerable, personally attending to their medical needs, sending children of less privileged to study within and outside the country on scholarship.

Indeed, his administration’s initiatives in education and healthcare have improved the lives of many residents in Nasarawa State.

As a visionary leader, Governor Sule came onboard with a clear and inspiring vision for the future as encapsulated in the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS).

As a pathfinder he is charting an entirely new course and leading others through the challenges brought about by subsidy removal and other policies of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

Being an iconoclast, traiblazer and statesman, Governor Sule is not only challenging the status quo and bringing about positive change, pioneering new paths and setting a new standard but also stands out as a leader with uncommon wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of the needs of his people.

We therefore join our father, leader, philanthropist and pacesetter as he marks his Blue Sapphire Anniversary.

Here’s to many more years of leadership, wisdom, and service to the people of Nasarawa State and Nigeria as a whole. May this milestone be filled with joy, love, and celebration!