By George Ozalla
Distinguished Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada has been turbaned as the Magajin Dangin Lafia, a prestigious traditional title in the Lafia Emirate. The ceremony, which took place over the weekend, was performed by the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Muhammad Bage.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented at the event by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, heartily congratulated Senator Wadada on his turbaning. Tinubu described the traditional title as a striking mark of honour because of Wadada’s people-oriented service, leadership, and enduring bond with the people of Nasarawa State. Tinubu further commended the Emir of Lafia for preserving the emirate’s tradition of honoring individuals whose lives reflect the values of unity, service, and integrity.
As Magajin Dangin, Senator Wadada bears a title rich in history, responsibility, and cultural heritage. President Tinubu expressed confidence that Wadada will continue to deploy his influence, experience, and goodwill to promote peace and foster development in Lafia Emirate, Nasarawa State, and Nigeria at large.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event include Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who spoke highly of Senator Wadada’s dedication to the welfare of his people. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State expressed pride in the senator’s achievements and the honor bestowed upon him, emphasizing the importance of leadership that prioritizes community needs.
Also, Senator Ahmed Ninge described Senator Wadada as a beacon of hope and a role model for aspiring leaders, while Senator Ede Edafinone urged him to continue his exemplary service to the people. Senator Victor Umeh advised Senator Wadada to uphold his cultural norms and values, always placing the desires of the people first. Earl Osaro Onaiwu, former Director General of the PDP Governor’s Forum, echoed similar sentiments, urging the senator to remain steadfast in his commitment to the community.
Dr. Ibrahim Tanko San Turaki Keffi, Honorable Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, observed that the honor given to Senator Wadada is well-deserved and urged him to continue impact on the lives of his people. Musa Ahmed Mohammed, the Accountant General of Nasarawa State, expressed his heartfelt congratulations and support for the senator’s new role. Hon. Safiynu Isah Anbaha, Chairman of ALGON in Nasarawa State, spotlighted the significance of the title in promoting unity and development within the emirate.
Senator Aliyu Wadada, a close political ally and friend of President Tinubu, currently represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the National Assembly. Born on October 15, 1964, he is a devout Muslim from Nasarawa State in the North-Central region of Nigeria and holds a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration from the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa.
With a distinguished career in public service, Senator Wadada has served as a two-term member of Nigeria’s Federal House of Representatives and held roles such as Pioneer Chairman of the House Committee on Capital Markets and Institutions and Chairman of the House Committee on Information and National Orientation.
The event witnessed mammoth crowd and featured lavish entertainment and rich colorful cultural performances, showcasing the region’s rich heritage, with dignitaries from across the state glued to the performances.
