I Will Return to Welding after Tenure, Governor Sule Says

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has announced that he plans to return to his original profession as a welder after completing his tenure in office.

The governor made this declaration during a roundtable organized by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

Reflecting on his technical background, Governor Sule shared that his career began in the trades, long before he ventured into business and politics.

“I actually started my education as a technician, as a welder, before I became a CNC Machinist and the rest of that. As you see me, shielded arc metal welding, oxyacetylene welding—once I finish from governor, I’m going into welding,” he said.

This statement highlights the governor’s deep connection to technical work, emphasizing the value of vocational skills even in leadership roles.

Governor Sule noted that his administration has prioritized technical education, establishing one of the most advanced technical institutions in the country, which has gained recognition from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

“We built one of the most standard technical institutions according to the NBTE. In fact, most of these big companies that are carrying out their training even here in Abuja, they train them in Nasarawa at that particular institution,” he added.

This institution, located in Nasarawa, has become a key training hub for companies in various sectors, reflecting the state’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce.

Governor Sule also highlighted efforts by his administration to create a favorable environment for investors. This includes offering tax incentives, legal frameworks to protect investments, and allocating 5% of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to de-risk investments.

He further emphasized the state’s potential in renewable energy, citing the presence of the largest lithium processing factory in Nigeria, with plans to commission another factory with triple the capacity. These projects are expected to strengthen Nasarawa’s position as a key player in the country’s renewable energy sector.

Governor Sule’s pledge to return to welding after his political career underscores his belief in the dignity of skilled labor and serves as an inspiration for young Nigerians to embrace technical education and vocational skills as viable career paths.

“It’s important to show that technical skills are valuable, and no one should feel that they are too good for skilled work,” he remarked.

As his tenure winds down, Governor Sule’s commitment to returning to his roots as a welder reflects his broader vision of economic self-reliance and practical skill development for Nigeria’s youth.