Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed, it is a pleasure having you. As the Accountant General of Nasarawa State, could you begin by providing us with an overview of the remarkable developments taking place under the leadership of Governor Abdullahi Sule?
Thank you. It’s an honor to discuss the progress in Nasarawa State. Under Governor Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule, the state is charting a path of rapid development and transformation. The governor’s leadership is characterized by prudence, integrity, and a vision for industrialization. His administration has prioritized infrastructure development, industrial growth, and human capital development, with specific focus on improving governance and accountability. Notably, Nasarawa is becoming one of the fastest-developing states in the country, with visible changes in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agricultural potential. Governor Sule is committed to building a sustainable future for the people of Nasarawa.
Governor Sule has made headlines for his transparency in governance. Can you elaborate on some of the actions he’s taken to ensure financial accountability in the state?
Governor Sule’s commitment to transparency and accountability has been evident in his handling of public funds. A prime example is the way he managed the N3 billion flood relief fund that came into the state. When this fund was received from the federal government, the governor directed that I, as the Accountant General, create a dedicated account specifically for the disbursement of this money. This initiative ensured that every penny was accounted for, and the relief was channeled directly to the people affected by the floods. Governor Sule’s willingness to announce publicly every fund received by the state, whether it’s federal intervention funds or donor assistance, reflects his openness and commitment to integrity in governance.
That level of transparency is rare in Nigerian governance. How does this influence the public perception of the administration in Nasarawa?
It’s a remarkable step in a country where public office often lacks transparency. The people of Nasarawa now view Governor Sule as someone who can be trusted, not just because he promises but because he demonstrates integrity through his actions. He has established a norm of open governance. This has had a tremendous impact on public trust. People are seeing the results of these efforts in the rebuilding of infrastructure, access to healthcare, and the state’s economic growth. The fact that the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, publicly acknowledged Governor Sule’s leadership during a recent visit further affirms that Nasarawa is on the right track.
One of the exciting developments is the planned cassava processing industry in Nasarawa State. Can you tell us about that?
Yes, that’s one of the exciting industrial projects Governor Sule is spearheading. Recently, the governor traveled abroad, outside of Africa, to secure investments for the state. One of the major outcomes of that trip is the establishment of a cassava processing industry in Nasarawa. This is significant because Nasarawa has an agricultural base, and cassava is one of the state’s staple crops. The cassava processing plant will not only create jobs but will also boost the state’s economy by adding value to our agricultural products. This initiative is part of the governor’s broader vision to turn Nasarawa into an industrial hub.
The company will convert cassava into starch and other end products. Recall that Governor Sule met the management of the company to seek further areas of collaboration during his recent visit to China. Beyond the cassava processing initiative, other big companies indicated interest to invest in the state during the visit. Recall that the week-long visit was at the instances of LOVOL Heavy industries Company Ltd., a leading tractor and farm equipment producer. LOVOL is also a reputable producer of rice harvesters, the like of which was used at the state owned rice farm in Jangwa, Awe local government area of the state during the last harvest. At the company’s headquarters in Weifang, China, Governor Sule said Nasarawa’s fertile arable land, teeming youth population and availability of technology will further drive the ongoing agricultural revolution in the state. His vision extends beyond equipment procurement to having service centres that will also help with training and retraining of citizens of the state. The management of the company obliged him the request by agreeing to set up workshops and training centres in Nasarawa state. This is a significant milestone that will further assist in revolutionising agriculture in the state. I remember that there is also a lithium processing company that indicated interest to invest about $200 million in the state among others. This is laudable.
Industrialization is clearly a priority. Can you tell us about other steps Governor Sule has taken to create an industrialized economy?
One of the selling points of Governor Sule’s administration is the ongoing massive exploration of different solid mineral deposits in the state. I think the significant breakthrough came through lithium with a number of foreign firms springing up due to the enabling environment created by the governor for the investors to come in. You will recall that sometime ago, President Bola Tinubu through the country’s number three citizen, Senator Godswill Akpabio, commissioned a multimillion-dollar lithium processing factory built by a Chinese firm, Avatar New Energy Materials Company Limited, and located in Udege community of Nasarawa LGA where I come from. From the information at our disposal the factory has the capacity to produce 4,000 metric tonnes of lithium concentrate per day, with an expansion plan to achieve annual target of 300,000 metric tonnes per annum within the next two years. This is indeed significant in many ways considering the jobs that will be created and expected revenue for the state.
Aside this, three other companies are presently working to prospect over 25,000 tonnes per day of lithium in the two LGAs of Nasarawa and Karu. They include Landmark Lithium Mining Company, which is targeting 3,000 tonnes of lithium a day; RSIN, which is working to process 4,500 tonnes in Karshi; and Ganfeng Lithium Mining Company, which performed the groundbreaking of its $250m factory that will process 18,000 metric tonnes per day in Endo village in the Udege Development Area in Nasarawa LGA. These are massive investments and catalysts for economic and industrial development of the state. Because of this feat the President has singled out the governor for praises, and has asked others to draw from Nasarawa experience and inspiration by luring investors to their domains.
We learnt that there’s discovery of oil and gas in the state; is this also part of the governor’s initiative?
Certainly. Having come from that background, Governor Sule has played a major role in getting the federal government through NNPCL to initiate an exploration activities in Keana and Obi local government areas. The exploration led to discovery of oil in commercial quantity in the two local government areas. Already, the Federal Government has commenced the drilling of Ebenyi-A Oil Well in Obi from where it planned to move into Keana.
Another significant project is the construction of overhead bridge and underpass in Nasarawa State. Could you tell us more about that initiative?
Yes, the construction of overhead bridge and underpass is part of Governor Sule’s infrastructure development plan. It will ease traffic congestion and improve mobility for our people. The overhead bridge and the underpass are already under construction, and there’s another one in the pipeline. This is a game changer for our state, as it enhances urban planning and connectivity, especially for businesses and commuters. The governor’s emphasis on infrastructure is pivotal to the state’s growth, as it lays the foundation for future economic development. Governor Sule is also making strides in building critical infrastructure such as roads and energy supply to make the state more conducive for industrial growth. No wonder he is constructing the best state Secretariat in the country for Nasarawa state. This will go a long way in easing office accommodation challenges in the state.
What can you tell us about the renovation of the Lafia Township Stadium, which is being upgraded to international standards?
The Lafia Township Stadium renovation is another crucial part of Governor Sule’s agenda to improve public amenities. The governor recognizes the importance of sports in youth engagement and in fostering community pride. By upgrading the stadium to international standards, he is not only giving our youth a platform to excel in sports but also positioning Nasarawa as a center for regional and national sports events. This will have a significant socio-economic impact, attracting tourism and enhancing the state’s profile.
How are the people of Nasarawa benefitting from these projects in terms of employment and local business opportunities?
These projects have created significant opportunities for the people of Nasarawa. The cassava processing industry, for instance, will create jobs in farming, transportation, and processing, and support small businesses in the area. Likewise, the construction of overhead bridges, the renovation of the Lafia Township Stadium, and other infrastructure projects are providing employment opportunities for local artisans, engineers, and labourers. Beyond direct employment, these developments are stimulating the local economy by increasing demand for goods and services in various sectors, including construction, hospitality, and transportation.
In terms of health care, how is Governor Sule improving access to medical services for the people of Nasarawa?
Governor Sule’s administration has invested heavily in healthcare. Across the state, healthcare centers have been renovated, and new ones have been constructed in Gudi community in Akwanga Local Government, Assakio in Lafia Local Government, Toto Local Government, and Karu LG respectively.
The governor is committed to providing free medical services to the people of Nasarawa, particularly in rural areas. The impact has been visible, with more people now accessing healthcare, especially maternal and child health services. These reforms are part of the governor’s broader agenda to provide quality services and improve the health outcomes of our citizens.
Education is another area where Governor Sule has made strides. Can you share the achievements in the education sector?
Education is one of Governor Sule’s top priorities. Under his leadership, the state has made significant strides in improving education at all levels. From renovating schools to providing learning materials and award of scholarship to students, the administration has been proactive in ensuring that our children have access to quality education. Governor Sule has also focused on teacher training and recruitment to ensure we have a competent workforce. His commitment to education has created a ripple effect, with more students enrolling in schools and achieving better academic outcomes.
Beyond infrastructure, what steps has Governor Sule taken to boost agriculture and food security in Nasarawa?
Governor Sule’s administration recognizes agriculture as the backbone of Nasarawa’s economy. Through various initiatives, he has encouraged farmers by providing access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and equipment. There are also programs aimed at ensuring food security and self-sufficiency. Additionally, Nasarawa’s agricultural products are now being transported on tarred roads, making it easier to get products to markets and boosting the incomes of farmers. The governor has also created agribusinesses to support young farmers in the state.
As someone who comes from Nasarawa local government, how do you personally view the changes taking place under Governor Sule’s leadership?
As someone who hails from Nasarawa local government area of the state, I am personally proud of the changes taking place in the state. The transformation is visible in every corner, from the roads to the schools, to the healthcare facilities. It’s a pleasure to see my community and the entire state progress so rapidly. Governor Sule has shown that leadership can be both effective and transparent, and I’m confident that Nasarawa is on the path to becoming a model for other states in Nigeria. My people send their greetings to the governor, and we appreciate his tireless efforts to uplift our state.
Finally, what message would you like to convey to the people of Nasarawa and the nation as a whole regarding Governor Sule’s leadership and the future of Nasarawa State?
I want to assure the people of Nasarawa state that Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule is committed to their well-being and prosperity. His leadership is driven by the desire to build a lasting legacy of progress, transparency, and accountability. The state is transforming in ways we never imagined, and there are many more positive changes to come. To the nation, I would say that Nasarawa is a state to watch – we are leading the way in governance, infrastructure, and industrial development. The future is bright for Nasarawa, and I’m proud to be a part of this historic moment.
Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration has indeed set Nasarawa State on a path of unprecedented development, with initiatives spanning across critical sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, and industrialization, the people of Nasarawa are reaping the rewards of accountable leadership, and the state is poised for even greater success in the coming years.
