Governor Abdullahi A. Sule, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, has built a reputation as a visionary technocrat, blending private-sector expertise with public service to position the state as an emerging hub of industrialisation and agricultural development.
Early Life and Education
Born on 26 December 1959 in Gudi Station, Akwanga Local Government Area (then Plateau State), Sule attended RCM Primary School, Gudi Station, and later Zang Secondary School, Bukuru.
He pursued Mechanical Technology at Kirkwood Community College, Iowa, USA, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Technology from Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana.
Distinguished Private Sector Career
Governor Sule’s professional journey began in the United States with Lenox Industries and Sanders Engineering.
On his return to Nigeria, he worked at Jos Steel Rolling Company and Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN) before co-founding Sadiq Petroleum Nigeria Limited, where he rose to Managing Director/CEO.
In 2011, he became Group Managing Director of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, where he played a pivotal role in expanding Nigeria’s sugar industry and establishing its backward integration projects.
Political Career and Governance
Sule’s early public service includes a stint as Director of Engineering Services and Permanent Secretary in the Nasarawa State Ministry of Works. He was elected Governor in March 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and re-elected in March 2023 for a second term.
Key Achievements in Office
Governor Sule’s administration is recognised for industrialisation, infrastructure development, and transparent governance. Notable achievements include:
- Industrialisation & Investment: Spearheaded the Dangote Sugar Backward Integration project in Tunga and attracted major mining and agricultural investments.
- Infrastructure: Expanded road networks and rural electrification to stimulate economic growth.
- Education: Upgraded schools, improved teacher training and modernised learning facilities.
- Health Sector: Renovated hospitals, strengthened primary healthcare centres, and improved immunisation and maternal health services.
- Economic Empowerment: Supported youth and women through vocational training, entrepreneurship and MSME funding.
- Transparency & Governance: Championed prudent financial management and encouraged robust public-private partnerships.
Leadership Style and Recognition
Renowned for his pro-business orientation, Governor Sule has strengthened the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS) and earned several traditional titles in recognition of his service.
He is frequently commended for his calm, inclusive leadership style, often described as a bridge between private-sector efficiency and effective governance.
Personal Life
Governor Sule is married with children and remains committed to fostering an environment of industrial and agricultural growth in Nasarawa State as he serves his second term in office.
With a rare blend of global business experience and homegrown political will, Governor Abdullahi A. Sule continues to shape Nasarawa’s journey towards sustainable development and economic transformation.
