President Bola Tinubu emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering peace and unity, particularly within diverse communities like Nasarawa State. He underscored this message during the turbaning ceremony of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West, as the Magajin Dangin of Lafian Bare-bari. President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stressed that harmonious coexistence among the various socio-cultural groups within the state’s 13 Local Government Areas is essential for achieving meaningful growth and development. He urged Senator Wadada to utilize his newfound title to champion peace-building initiatives, both within the Lafia Emirate and across other traditional structures, thereby contributing to the state’s sustainable progress.
President Tinubu commended Senator Wadada’s investiture, recognizing it as a testament to his dedicated service to humanity and his contributions to good governance. He highlighted the historical significance and inherent responsibilities associated with the Magajin Dangin title, expressing confidence in Senator Wadada’s ability to uphold the virtues of leadership, integrity, and service. Tinubu acknowledged Wadada’s commendable track record in both the public and private sectors, including his philanthropic endeavors that have positively impacted numerous lives. He expressed optimism that Wadada would leverage his influence to further consolidate unity, peace, and sustainable development within the Lafia Emirate and beyond.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, also lauded Senator Wadada, characterizing him as a man of honor, integrity, and a dedicated philanthropist committed to the well-being of Nasarawa State residents, particularly the less privileged. Furthermore, he acknowledged Governor Abdullahi Sule’s developmental achievements across the state, urging him to maintain his commitment to good governance in order to enhance the living conditions of all residents. Governor Sule, as the chief host of the ceremony, expressed his appreciation to the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad (rtd), for recognizing Senator Wadada and other distinguished individuals with various honors.
Governor Sule proudly declared Nasarawa State as the most peaceful in the federation, attributing this achievement to the inclusive leadership of the Emir of Lafia, which has fostered unity among diverse ethnic and religious groups. Senator Wadada expressed gratitude to the dignitaries who attended the ceremony and pledged to continue sponsoring impactful bills and implementing programs that benefit his constituents and beyond. He emphasized that the honor bestowed upon him would further motivate him to dedicate himself to governance and service to humanity.
The Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad (rtd), while welcoming guests, urged Senator Wadada to remain steadfast in his support for the less privileged and to consistently uphold the truth. The turbaning ceremony witnessed the presence of numerous dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe; former Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura; former Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib; and former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomole.
The event also attracted other prominent figures, such as Governors Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State. High-ranking federal and state government appointees, serving and former senators, and members of the House of Representatives were also among those present, underscoring the ceremony’s significance. The occasion served as a platform to reinforce the importance of collaboration between governmental and traditional structures in advancing peace, unity, and sustainable development within Nasarawa State.
