By Peter Jatau
LAFIA, Nasarawa State – August 3, 2025 – A historic moment unfolded in the ancient city of Lafia as Senator Aliyu Ahmed Wadada was turbaned as the Magajin Dangin Lafia, one of the most revered traditional titles in the Lafia Emirate Council. The colorful ceremony, held over the weekend, was presided over by His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Muhammad Bage, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs.
The conferment of the title drew dignitaries from across the nation and witnessed a mammoth turnout of well-wishers, cultural performers, and political figures. It marked a significant cultural acknowledgment of Senator Wadada’s lifelong commitment to community development, public service, and grassroots engagement.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, congratulated Senator Wadada on the honor. He described the traditional title as “a striking mark of distinction earned through people-oriented leadership and deep-rooted service to Nasarawa State.” President Tinubu also commended the Emir for continuing the noble tradition of recognizing exemplary leadership.
In his goodwill message, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, praised Wadada as a “pillar of dedication” to the well-being of his constituents. Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi A. Sule hailed the honor as a reflection of the Senator’s visible impact across the state, calling for continued servant-leadership in governance and tradition.
Several lawmakers and notable figures graced the occasion with moving tributes. Senator Ahmed Ningi referred to Wadada as “a beacon of hope and leadership,” while Senator Ede Dafinone encouraged him to stay the course of public service. Senator Victor Umeh advised the new Magajin Dangi to remain a custodian of cultural values, and former PDP Governors’ Forum Director General, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, called for steadfastness in community upliftment.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Ibrahim Tanko, Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, described the honor as “deserved and timely,” while Nasarawa State Accountant General Musa Ahmed Mohammed and ALGON Chairman Hon. Safiyanu Isah Anbaha commended Wadada’s developmental strides and the unity his new title inspires.
Born on October 15, 1964, Senator Wadada hails from Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s North-Central region. A devout Muslim and seasoned public servant, he holds a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration from Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa. He previously served two terms in the House of Representatives, where he was pioneer chairman of the Committee on Capital Markets and Institutions and later chaired the Committee on Information and National Orientation.
Currently representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Wadada is a close political ally of President Tinubu and a respected voice in the Senate. His turbaning as Magajin Dangin places upon him greater responsibility to champion peace, development, and cultural preservation in Lafia Emirate and beyond.
The celebration was a grand affair, featuring rich cultural performances, music, and dance that showcased Nasarawa’s heritage. The Emirate palace grounds were filled with celebratory cheers as dignitaries and locals watched traditional troupes perform age-old rites.
With his new title, Senator Wadada now joins the pantheon of leaders who embody the values of integrity, tradition, and service — a legacy he has promised to uphold.
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