VENO tv: POLITICS NASARAWA GOVERNORSHIP RACE All Eyes on Ahmed Aliyu Wadada — From Banking Into Politics Date: 22-08-26
By Kayode Adoide
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the Nasarawa State governorship election, attention is increasingly turning to Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, the lawmaker representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District.
Wadada has built a political career spanning more than two decades, moving from the private sector into the House of Representatives and eventually the Senate.
With the race to succeed the outgoing Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, attracting growing interest, Wadada has become one of the prominent political figures to watch.
From Banking and Business to Politics
Born in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Wadada had experience in banking, administration and business before establishing himself in politics.
His professional background exposed him to business administration, management and commercial operations—experience that would later form part of the foundation for his public career.
Journey to the National Assembly
Wadada's major breakthrough in elective politics came in 2003 when he was elected to the House of Representatives to represent the Keffi/Karu/Kokona Federal Constituency.
His years in the House helped him build political networks and strengthen his grassroots presence across Nasarawa State.
Years later, Wadada sought a seat in the Senate. After leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), he contested the 2023 election for Nasarawa West Senatorial District and emerged victorious.
The victory demonstrated his political strength and ability to maintain a substantial following beyond party structures.
Constituency Engagement
Since becoming a senator, Wadada has maintained a visible presence within Nasarawa West and has repeatedly spoken about the state's development potential, particularly its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
He has also been associated with youth empowerment and entrepreneurship initiatives, while maintaining close interaction with traditional institutions and communities in the state.
His political activities have continued to generate discussion about his ambitions beyond the Senate.
Back in the APC
Wadada's political journey has involved changes in party affiliation, reflecting the fluid nature of Nigerian politics.
After winning his Senate seat on the platform of the SDP, he subsequently returned to the APC, further raising speculation about his political future in Nasarawa State.
His growing visibility within the ruling party has consequently placed him among the politicians attracting attention in discussions about the governorship.
All Eyes on Wadada
The battle over who succeeds Governor Abdullahi Sule promises to be one of Nasarawa's major political contests.
For Wadada, the journey has been remarkable—from banking and business to the House of Representatives, from changing political platforms to winning a Senate seat.
His supporters point to his legislative experience, grassroots connections and political resilience as strengths as the governorship conversation intensifies.
But ultimately, the people of Nasarawa State will determine who earns their confidence at the ballot box.
For now, one thing is clear: Ahmed Aliyu Wadada is a political figure to watch as the Nasarawa governorship race takes shape.