By Umar Muhammed, Lafia
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District, on his conferment with the traditional title of Magaji Dangin of Lafia Bare-Bere by the Lafia Emirate. He urged the lawmaker to use the honour to promote peace, unity, and development across Nasarawa State.
The president’s message was delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the colourful turbaning ceremony held in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
President Tinubu described the title as a well-deserved recognition of Senator Wadada’s exceptional contributions to humanity, governance, and community development.
“Your elevation to this prestigious title is not only a profound personal honour, but also a resounding affirmation of your unwavering commitment to public service, cultural heritage, and social progress,” the president stated.
He praised Wadada’s philanthropic legacy, legislative achievements, and service in both public and private sectors, encouraging him to leverage the new role to deepen peace and unity across the state.
“As you step into this noble traditional role, I trust that you will promote sustainable development, particularly within the Lafia Emirate and Nasarawa State’s traditional institutions,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin, congratulated Senator Wadada, describing him as a man of honour, integrity, and compassion, especially toward the less privileged.
He also commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for his developmental strides, urging him to continue the spirit of inclusive governance that has transformed the state.
In his remarks, Governor Sule thanked the Emir of Lafia for honouring deserving sons and daughters of the state. He noted that Nasarawa remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, attributing this to the Emir’s inclusive leadership style that fosters unity among diverse ethnic and religious groups.
Earlier, the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage-Muhammad (Rtd), expressed gratitude to all dignitaries in attendance and described the turbaning as a fulfilment of the long-standing bond between his family and that of Senator Wadada. He recalled the close relationship between Senator Wadada’s late father, Alhaji Danyaya, and his own father, describing them as men of honour and mutual respect.
Following his turbaning by Maikano Abdullahi Musa and Sarki Pada Zakaria Anass, Senator Wadada expressed gratitude to the Emirate and guests, pledging to continue impactful programmes that benefit the people of Nasarawa and beyond.
“This honour will further inspire me to deepen my commitment to governance and service to humanity,” Wadada said.
The event drew dignitaries from across the country, including Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe; former Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Faisal Shuaib; former Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura; Speaker of the House of Representatives (represented); Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye; Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole; and other serving senators and ex-lawmakers.
Also present were Governors Bala Mohammed of Bauchi and Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger, alongside former governors Adamu Mu’azu (Bauchi) and Boni Haruna (Adamawa), and the Auditor General of the Federation, among others.
The ceremony was further enlivened by colourful performances from traditional horse riders and praise singers.