Abdullahi Sule

Abdullahi Sule: Biography and Career **Abdullahi Audu Sule** (born December 26, 1959) is a Nigerian politician, engineer, and businessman who serves as the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A seasoned technocrat, Sule transitioned into public service after a successful career spanning several decades in both the Nigerian and United States private sectors, particularly in engineering, manufacturing, and oil and gas. **Early Life and Education** Abdullahi Sule was born in the village of Gudi, Akwanga-West Development Area, in present-day Nasarawa State, Nigeria. He is of the Mada ethnic group. His father, the late Alhaji Sule Bawa, was the first traditional ruler (Dah Gudi) of the Gudi Chiefdom. Sule began his education in Gudi and later attended Roman Catholic Mission (RCM) Primary School, Gudi, before proceeding to Government Secondary School, Lafia, and later Zaria to complete his secondary education. Driven by an interest in engineering, he traveled to the United States for further studies. He obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Mechanical Technology from Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1980. Subsequently, he earned a master’s degree in Industrial Technology from the same institution in 1985. **Career Progression and Notable Works** Sule's professional career began in the United States, where he worked with various companies. Upon returning to Nigeria, he joined the Plateau State Utilities Board as an engineer. His career trajectory quickly moved into the private sector, where he achieved significant recognition as an executive and manager in Nigeria's crucial industries. A major phase of his professional life began when he worked with the Jos-based company, Nigeria Mining Corporation (NMC). He later joined the multinational oil and gas giant, Elf Petroleum Nigeria Limited (now Total Nigeria), where he served in various capacities. His most notable achievements in the private sector came while serving as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc. During his tenure from 2008 until 2018, he oversaw the company's significant expansion, including its listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and its transition into a leading sugar processing company in West Africa. He was also a Deputy Group Managing Director of the Dangote Group, contributing to the conglomerate's overall strategy and operations. **Political Career and Major Achievements** Abdullahi Sule officially entered the political arena when he contested the gubernatorial election in Nasarawa State. In 2018, he secured the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket, and in March 2019, he was elected as the Governor of Nasarawa State. He was subsequently re-elected for a second term in 2023. As Governor, his administration has primarily focused on five key pillars: Peace, Security, and Good Governance; Education; Health; Infrastructure; and Economic Development (particularly agriculture and solid minerals). Key achievements include significant investments in education infrastructure, the construction of major road networks across the state, and initiatives aimed at attracting foreign direct investment, such as the establishment of the Nasarawa Technology Village. He is also recognized for his efforts in promoting peace and addressing internal security challenges within the state. **Current Status** As of the current date, Abdullahi Sule is serving his second term as the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. He continues to pursue his administration's goal of transforming Nasarawa State into an economically viable and peaceful center in North-Central Nigeria.