Nasarawa 2027: Prof. M.S. Haruna joins governorship race
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa
As Nasarawa State prepares for the 2027 gubernatorial elections, several politicians are maneuvering to succeed Governor Abdullahi Sule. Key contenders include Dr. Musa Muhammed Maikaya (Toto), one time governorship aspirant, who is gaining momentum due to his political acumen and grassroots support, Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu Wadada (Keffi), incumbent Senator representing Nasarawa West District, former House of representatives member for Karu, Keffi and Kokona federal constituency and estwhile governorship aspirant, and Hon Muhammed Abdullahi (Karu), former Minister and SSG
Among others are Arc. Jaafar Muhammed Ibrahim (Toto), a former House of Representatives member for Toto/Nasarawa federal constituency and a past governorship aspirant, Dr. Faisal Shuaib (Toto), the immediate past Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Agency, and Rt. Hon Ahmed Musa (Nasarawa), viewed by many as new figures in the 2027 elections.
One of the major political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is faces internal divisions but aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
Nevertheless, the power brokers and zoning dynamics will exert significant influence over the election result.
Professor Mohammed Sani Haruna, a former executive officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), is considered a potential candidate for the governorship of Nasarawa State in 2027.
However, his candidacy faces challenges due to perceived limitations such as a lack of charisma and a limited political network within the state.
Despite his professional achievements in innovation and infrastructural development during his tenure at NASENI, these factors may hinder his success in the race
He is widely regarded as the APC’s (All Progressives Congress) best prospect for retaining its position in the state while promoting unity and progress.
His achievements in technological innovation, youth empowerment, and industrial development have received accolades from stakeholders.
During his tenure at NASENI, which began in 2012, Professor Mohammed Sani Haruna was instrumental in driving innovation and infrastructural development. He expanded NASENI’s research and development institutes from 9 to 23, significantly enhancing the agency’s capabilities.
Under his leadership, NASENI emerged as the “Best Performing Agency” in Nigeria within the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology. His work also included integrating artificial intelligence into power systems to improve efficiency and reduce losses. Haruna completed his ten-year tenure as Executive Vice Chairman/CEO in April 2023.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) was established in 1992 by the Federal Government of Nigeria to develop processes, capital goods, and equipment necessary for job creation and national economic well-being of Nigerians.
Its mission is to establish a dynamic science and engineering infrastructure base for achieving home-initiated and home-sustained industrialization. NASENI focuses on areas such as capital goods research, production, reverse engineering, engineering materials, scientific equipment development, and more.
Before assuming his role at NASENI, Haruna garnered extensive experience in industry, academia, and government, with past affiliations including NASCO Pack Ltd., Ikara Food Processing Co. Ltd, New Park Plc., Mainsys Technical Ltd., Central Support Engineering Ltd., Kaduna Polytechnic, and Power Equipment and Electrical Machinery Development Institute (PEEMADI), along with teaching positions as a visiting lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and a visiting professor at Nile University of Nigeria.
At his official residence in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Prof. Haruna emphasized to the Nasarawa West Reporters Forum the importance of having leaders with the quality and credibility to lead the people.
He expressed regret that many leaders in various positions lack the necessary qualifications, underscoring the importance of choosing leaders who prioritize the people’s well-being and development.
Prof. Haruna has confirmed his intention to run for the governorship position, citing his desire to contribute to the development, unity, progress, and growth of Nasarawa State. He highlighted the need for merit-based appointments, ensuring that qualified individuals occupy key positions to drive productivity and national growth.
Prof. Haruna achieved notable success as NASENI Vice Chairman by implementing projects across three senatorial zones, consequently creating employment opportunities for youths in federal government ministries and parastatals.
He advised Nigerians to exercise careful consideration when choosing their leaders, stressing the importance of informed decision-making in driving development and progress.
