Gabriel Suswam

**Gabriel Suswam Biography** **Early Life and Education** Gabriel Torwua Suswam was born on November 15, 1964, in Anyiin, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. He hails from the Tiv ethnic group. Suswam began his education at LGEA Primary School, Anyiin, before proceeding to St. Francis Secondary School, Makurdi, where he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC). He pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree. He then attended the Nigerian Law School, Lagos, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989. Subsequently, he earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from the University of Lagos. **Career Progression and Political Ascent** Suswam began his professional career as a private legal practitioner, gaining experience that would later inform his political career. His entry into politics began with his election into the House of Representatives, representing the Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Federal Constituency of Benue State. He served two terms in this capacity, from 1999 to 2007. During his time in the National Assembly, he held key positions, including Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. In 2007, Gabriel Suswam successfully contested the gubernatorial election in Benue State under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). He was inaugurated as the Governor of Benue State in May 2007. He secured a second term in office in 2011, serving as governor until 2015. **Major Achievements and Notable Works (Governorship)** During his two terms as Governor, Suswam focused on infrastructure development, education, and healthcare in Benue State, often referred to as the "Food Basket of the Nation." * **Infrastructure:** His administration initiated and completed several road networks within the state capital, Makurdi, and across various local government areas, improving connectivity and commercial activity. Notable projects included the construction of bridges and the urban renewal of major cities. * **Education:** Significant efforts were made to improve educational infrastructure. This included the construction and renovation of primary and secondary schools and investment in tertiary institutions in the state. * **Healthcare:** Suswam’s government worked on upgrading general hospitals and primary healthcare centers across the 23 local government areas of Benue State to enhance access to medical services.**Post-Governorship Career and Current Status** Following his tenure as governor, Suswam continued his political involvement. In 2019, he successfully contested for the Benue North-East Senatorial District seat and was elected to the 9th National Assembly, where he served as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria until 2023. As a senator, he contributed to legislative activities, often focusing on issues related to his constituency and national development. His current status involves continued participation in Nigerian politics and private endeavors, maintaining his influence within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Benue State political landscape.