Abdullahi Sule, governor of Nasarawa state, says Umaru Fintiri, governor of Adamawa state, has “progressive DNA,” a comment aimed at political wooing.
Sule spoke on Monday in Yola during the commissioning of the Federal Housing Estate Road Network and the presentation of a book titled Fintiri: The Man They Could Not Stop.
The Democratic Spirit
Speaking further, Sule praised Fintiri’s tolerance and democratic attitude.
He recalled an incident at one of Fintiri’s events where a hired crowd chanted “Bamayi” at the governor.
Instead of reacting angrily, Sule said Fintiri responded calmly and even joked with the crowd.
“He asked the DJ to play good music, danced it out, and played along,” Sule said.
According to him, that response reflected true democracy.
“That is democracy. You are working like a true progressive governor,” he added.
APC DNA
The Nasarawa governor told the Adamawa governor that progressivism runs in his blood.
“I dare say, you have the APC in your DNA,” he said.
He added that both of them share similar views on governance and leadership.
“We are on the same page with you,” Sule said.
Economic Reforms and Renewed Hope
Furthermore, Sule credited President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms for improved revenues across states.
He said governors and local government chairmen have seen increased funds as a result of the reforms.
As a result, he urged applause for the president.
“We must say a big thank you to Mr President for the wonderful reforms that have put more money in our hands,” he said.
Sule Woos Fintiri
Furthermore, Sule hinted at a broader political outreach by the ruling party.
He listed recent visits to states such as Delta, Rivers, Enugu, Plateau, Taraba, and Kano.
“Who knows, this may be another expedition for a big catch,” he said, showing a cap with a joke that he could place on Fintiri if the governor was “thinking along similar lines.”
Leadership Beyond Popularity
On the burden of leadership, he said governing requires courage, conviction, and patience, not the pursuit of popularity.
“Leadership is not about popularity at all costs,” he said.
Instead, he described leadership as clarity of purpose, consistency in service and fear of God.
According to him, Fintiri’s political journey, as captured in the book, reflects those values.
Sule thanked Fintiri for the invitation and prayed for unity among leaders.
He said such unity remains essential for Nigeria’s progress and stability.
