Nasarawa State in My Heart

I am from Plateau State, a part of which eventually became Nasarawa State in 1996. While Benue State had earlier been created from the old Benue-Plateau State in 1976, Nasarawa was carved out of Plateau twenty years later.

Despite the fact that Nasarawa State has now existed for almost three decades, the years have not weakened the emotional bond that ties the two states. The Commissioner for Commerce and Investments, Mohammed Sani Oto, a man with an impressive and refined sense of style, makes it a point to visit the Plateau Pavilion whenever there is a trade fair. He always speaks in a tone that evokes the fraternity we once shared and continue to share. His words stir a sentiment that reminds us that the creation of states was never meant to divide people, but rather to take development deeper into communities.

Another expression of this bond played out recently in Jos. There was a sensitization program on the new template for data submission in the mining sector. It was held in Jos as the North Central zonal gathering, drawing participants from across the region. The Nasarawa State delegation was led by the Commissioner of Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Aminu Mu’azu Maifata. While saluting dignitaries, he pronounced the traditional title of Ata-Ateng of Ganawuri with striking precision. Then, with a smile, he remarked, “Many may be surprised that I pronounced that title correctly. Do not forget that Nasarawa State was created out of Plateau State.”

Maifata led a delegation that included the thirteen chairmen representing the thirteen local government areas of Nasarawa State. He himself had once served as ALGON Chairman, having been Chairman of Lafia Local Government. Unlike many dignitaries who left early, he remained till the close of the event around 5 p.m. From this, I understood something deeper: they were at home — reliving familiar warmth — and they wanted to savour it. In my heart, I wished we could have given even more.

During the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, a Director from the Nasarawa Ministry of Commerce and Investment, Mr. Agbo, visited our pavilion and spoke emotionally about how much the people of Nasarawa still missed Jos. He highlighted the enchanting weather, the landscape of Plateau, and the modesty, sincerity, and hospitality of its people.

At the Jos sensitization event, Nasarawa State was commended for its exemplary performance in mining data reporting, which placed its solid minerals derivation revenue ahead of others. On the histogram chart, Nasarawa stood tall — like Gulliver among Lilliputians.

When the people of Nasarawa speak about their Governor, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, they do so with passion and generosity of praise. Beyond acknowledging the improved financial inflows available to states following the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, many believe there is something uniquely strategic about Governor Sule. His experience with the Dangote Group before assuming office may have enhanced his approach to governance and resource management. And as we see in their mining revenue achievements, it reflects the immense potential within the people of Nasarawa State.

For those who wish Nasarawa well, there is a growing hope that the state will continue to exceed expectations and demonstrate that younger states can achieve greatness beyond common assumptions. If Nasarawa sustains this trajectory, the bold line separating the so-called “bigger” and “smaller” states will gradually fade away.