Independence: Nasarawa Speaker Calls for Sustained Prayers, Support for Leaders
Jatau Hails Founding Fathers, Urges Leaders to Sustain Their Legacies — Declares Continued Commitment to APC, 2027 Victory
By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku
The Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, Ph.D., has called on Nigerians and residents of Nasarawa State to sustain prayers and support for governments and leaders at all levels to enable them succeed.
Jatau, who represents Kokona West Constituency, made the call in his Independence Day message while addressing journalists in Lafia, the state capital.
The Speaker said no nation or individual could achieve meaningful progress without the prayers, cooperation and support of the people, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building.
He commended the founding fathers of Nigeria and Nasarawa State for their contributions to the development of society and urged present-day leaders to sustain the legacies they established.
“Yes, as a country and as a state, we have made progress. So far, so good, we are not stagnant and we thank God for that. We cannot continue to make progress without peace.”
Jatau described peace as a fundamental requirement for development, urging citizens to promote unity and love while focusing more on issues that unite them than those that divide them.
He said, “Let our diversity be an advantage, not a division.”
Jatau Commends Governor Sule
The Speaker commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for his administration's efforts in promoting peace and development across Nasarawa State.
According to him, the governor has recorded achievements in various sectors, particularly in attracting investment and developing the mining sector.
He specifically cited lithium mining as an area that, according to him, has created employment opportunities for youths and contributed to state revenue.
Jatau also appreciated Governor Sule for the support extended to the State House of Assembly, including what he described as partial financial autonomy, which he said had enhanced legislative processes.
He pledged the Assembly's continued cordial working relationship with the executive arm of government, saying cooperation among the arms of government was necessary for sustainable development.
“The rapid development we are witnessing in the state is as a result of the good working relationship between the executive and the House.”
The Speaker said the peaceful atmosphere among lawmakers, positive interventions and improved working relationship between the legislature and executive were among the achievements he would like to be remembered for when he leaves office.
‘I Will Remain in APC, Work for 2027 Victory’
On political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections, Jatau expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and urged party members who had moved to opposition parties to consider returning.
He said he remained committed to the APC and would work for the party's success in the 2027 elections.
“I am a party man with ideology, and I believe in God. He gives power to whoever He wishes at His own appointed time.”
Jatau recalled that after losing his bid for the House of Representatives, he accepted the outcome in good faith and said he had previously stepped down from electoral contests in the interest of the party and its stakeholders.
He added that despite what he described as being “shortchanged” in previous elections, he chose not to pursue litigation, saying his experiences had strengthened his faith in God's timing.
“I am an APC man, I will remain in the party and work for its victory in 2027,” he declared.
The Speaker further urged the people of Nasarawa State to continue to embrace peace, unity, mutual respect and love for one another, stressing that these remained essential to the development of the state.
