*Photo: Professor Mohammad Sani Haruna*
A former Chief Executive of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Professor Mohammad Sani Haruna, has declared that his decision to seek the governorship of Nasarawa State is driven by a desire to deploy his experience in technology, public service and development planning to transform the state’s economy.
*Stakeholders, during the 2026 Western Zone Prof. Haruna’s Symposium organised by Nasarawa State Concerned Democrats held at Keffi, on Tuesday*
Haruna made this known at a symposium organised in his honour by supporters and political associates, in Keffi, Nasarawa State on Tuesday, where he also unveiled key elements of his development agenda anchored on peace, industrialisation and continuity.
Speaking at the event, the professor said his aspiration was not about personal ambition but a commitment to service and sustainable development.
“It is important to ask why I even ventured into politics and aspire to lead Nasarawa State, if God makes it possible by His grace,” he said.
“It is not about seeking a name. If I want a name, I will aim for a Nobel Prize. This is about service.”
Prof. Haruna emphasised that peace and unity would remain the foundation of his administration if elected, noting that Nasarawa’s diversity must be harnessed as a strength rather than a source of division.
“Peace and harmonious coexistence are fundamental. Without peace, nothing meaningful can be achieved,” he said.
“God created us in different tribes and languages so we can understand and benefit from one another. The best among us is the one who cares for humanity.”
He stressed that the state must move away from dependence on raw materials and embrace industrialisation.
“What Nasarawa needs is a manufacturing and industrial economy that can sustain development,” he said.
“We must harness our resources and turn them into useful products. You cannot develop by exporting raw materials and importing finished goods.”
The governorship aspirant pledged to sustain ongoing infrastructure projects while expanding industries to create jobs, empower youths and drive economic growth.
“My agenda is to ensure sustainability of the current developmental trajectory, expand infrastructure, and promote industries for employment generation, youth empowerment and skills development using science, technology and innovation,” he said.
Haruna highlighted his extensive career spanning technical, managerial and leadership roles, including his tenure at NASENI, where he said he worked with successive administrations and drove innovation.
“I started as a technician, a craftsman, an engineer, and rose through the ranks to leadership,” he said.
“I have worked across Nigeria, across Africa and globally. I have seen what works and what does not.”
He recalled how he successfully secured support from state governors for NASENI’s funding framework, describing it as evidence of his ability to build consensus.
“I went round the states and presented what they stand to gain, and they agreed. Development requires engagement and understanding,” he added.
The professor disclosed that he has already developed a comprehensive blueprint for Nasarawa State, based on detailed assessments across sectors.
“We have taken stock of education, health, agriculture, infrastructure—everything,” he said.
“If there are 30 schools in a local government, we know the condition of each—those that need classrooms, those without water, those without facilities.”
He explained that the approach would eliminate guesswork in governance.
“Development must not be based on assumptions. It must be based on needs assessment. You cannot claim to improve education by building classrooms where they are not needed,” he said.
Haruna also pledged to build on existing achievements in the state, particularly in infrastructure and economic development.
“The ongoing infrastructural development in Nasarawa State is something we must sustain,” he said.
“Even if it is not me, whoever becomes governor must continue on that path.”
Haruna urged party stakeholders and residents of the state to support his aspiration, promising inclusive governance and measurable progress.
“If you give me the opportunity, I will serve with commitment and ensure that Nasarawa achieves sustainable development,” he said.
“If you don’t, I will still be satisfied that I offered my service.”
Earlier, the guest speaker at the symposium, Dr. Abubakar Salisu Maikasuwa delivered a lecture on democracy, governance and leadership, stressing that credible elections and accountable leadership are the bedrock of development.
“Democracy is government of the people, by the people and for the people, but it goes beyond that,” he said.
“It includes rule of law, protection of human rights, and effective management of public resources.”
He added that good governance requires participation, accountability and strategic vision.
“You cannot achieve democracy merely by establishing institutions like the legislature, executive and judiciary. The way they function determines the outcome,” he noted.
Maikasuwa emphasised the role of leadership in shaping society.
“Leadership is a decisive factor. Societies need competent, honest, visionary and empathetic leaders,” he said, warning against “selfish, nepotistic and arrogant leadership.”
He also linked development to citizens’ welfare.
“Sustainable development must translate into real benefits—food, shelter, healthcare, education, employment and basic services,” he said.
Earlier, one of the organisers of the Engr. Prof Mohammad Sani Haruna
Western Zone
Symposium 2026 with the
theme: “Creating Political Awareness for sustainable Development” Hon. Kasim T. Kasim, said the symposium was convened by supporters and well-wishers to provide a platform for interaction between the aspirant and stakeholders.
“This is an opportunity for party leaders, members and supporters to engage directly, ask questions and understand the vision,” he said on behalf of the Nasarawa State Concerned Democrats that organised the event.
He noted that participants were drawn from across five local government areas in Nasarawa West Senatorial Zone, reflecting broad-based interest in the political future of the state.
The symposium ended with calls for unity among party members and sustained engagement as political activities gather momentum ahead of upcoming elections.