By Sam Israel JP

Today, Saturday, 2nd August 2025, history is being written in bold, golden ink in the ancient city of Lafia, Nasarawa State capital as the Emir of Lafia, His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Bage I, bestows upon Distinguished Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu (Sarkin Yakin Keffi) the revered traditional title of Magajin Danjin Lafian Bere-bere. This is not merely a ceremonial turbanning—it is a moment of cultural affirmation, political significance, and spiritual endorsement. The significance of this honor cannot be overstated, as it is a recognition of Senator Wadada’s commitment to the unity, progress, and development of Nasarawa State.

From all walks of life, dignitaries including President Tinubu represented by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Federation, Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Alhaji Sule and his Deputy, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, 20 serving senators, large number of the House of Representatives, Ministers, captains of industries, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, political associates, business moguls, clergy, youth, and women groups have poured into Lafia to witness this epoch-making event. The sheer diversity and volume of attendance is a clear testament to Senator Wadada’s cross-sectional acceptability across the state and beyond. Men and women from the western, northern, and southern senatorial zones of Nasarawa are all united in celebration—a unity that foreshadows a greater consensus for the future.

As the Magajin Danjin Lafian Bere-bere, Senator Wadada assumes a role steeped in heritage and responsibility. The title, traditionally conferred on men of wisdom, vision, courage, and service, is an affirmation of the trust and high esteem in which the people of Lafia and the larger Nasarawa Emirate hold him. His deep understanding of the values, history, and aspirations of our people uniquely positions him to serve not only as a bridge between cultures but as the builder of a more prosperous future.

More than a politician, Senator Ahmed Wadada is a unifier, a reformer, and a servant-leader. His tenure in the National Assembly was marked by an unrelenting pursuit of equity, developmental legislation, and grassroots engagement. He has consistently championed causes that uplift the common man, invest in youth, and protect the dignity of the traditional institution. His recognition today is proof that leadership, when rooted in service, does not go unnoticed.

Senator Wadada’s strength lies in his accessibility, his humility, and his ability to listen to people regardless of class or creed. Whether you speak to farmers in Awe, teachers in Keffi, traders in Nasarawa Eggon, or youths in Toto, you hear a common refrain—Wadada is a man of the people. His door is always open, and his commitment to justice, fairness, and inclusive development is unmatched.

It is therefore no surprise that he is being widely considered the front-runner in the race for the 2027 governorship of Nasarawa State. The people have seen him walk the talk. His presence today, flanked by leaders and stakeholders from all the three senatorial districts, is a strong signal of statewide support. The enthusiasm is organic, unforced, and genuine.

The turbanning also comes at a time when Nasarawa is in search of visionary leadership—one that understands the peculiar challenges of a diverse state and can harmonize its rich human and natural resources. Senator Wadada’s political pedigree, combined with his traditional title, gives him both the mandate of the grassroots and the blessing of the elders. That is a rare and powerful combination.

In him, Nasarawa sees a leader who respects the past, understands the present, and is prepared for the future. His development agenda is rooted in practical experience and people-centered policies. His legacy projects in education, health, youth empowerment, and infrastructure speak for themselves and are reflective of what he would bring to the table as governor.

The joy and enthusiasm in Lafia today reflect more than a celebration—they are a declaration of faith in Wadada’s leadership. From Doma to Wamba, from Karu to Nasarawa, the people are saying loud and clear: This is the kind of leader we need. One who values tradition but is not trapped by it; who respects the royal fathers but works for the common man.

This turbanning is a symbol of unity, and that unity will translate into electoral victory in 2027. Senator Wadada is not only qualified by experience and vision—he is qualified by the people’s trust. That is the greatest endorsement any candidate can have. In him, the dreams of many communities for inclusive governance and accelerated development are reignited.

Indeed, if today’s event is any.

Sam Israel is the Senior Special Assistant to Distinguished Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu Senator representing the western zone, Nasarawa State.