Reimagining Nigeria’s Political Economy

By, Dr, Donald Amagbo rpa

The resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on June 27, 2025, has opened a critical opportunity for the North Central geopolitical zone to reclaim the chairmanship slot, in line with the principles of balance, fairness, fair play, and justice.

With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the South-West and Senate President Godswill Akpabio from the South-South, zoning the APC chairmanship to the North Central is essential for maintaining political equilibrium and fostering inclusivity. Among the prominent leaders from this zone, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, a former governor of Nasarawa State and a key figure in the APC’s formation, stands out as the most credible and suitable candidate to lead the party, given his extensive experience, proven leadership, and unwavering commitment to the APC’s ideals.

SPONSOR AD

Al-Makura, who made history as Nigeria’s first and only governor elected under the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), is being described by political insiders as a natural choice to steer the APC through its next phase of growth and internal unity.

Party chieftains argue that his track record of loyalty, humility, and grassroots connection stands him out at a time the APC is seeking stability and renewed direction ahead of the 2027.

Known for his calm disposition and strategic thinking, Al-Makura played a pivotal role in consolidating the CPC structure during its merger with ACN and ANPP to form the APC in 2013.

Observers say his leadership would restore internal confidence, improve party discipline, and set the stage for a more inclusive and forward-looking APC.

While the party has yet to officially announce its next chairman, consultations are ongoing, and many see Al-Makura as the frontrunner for the job.

Senator Al-Makura has a strong history of advocating for democracy, having been active in the National Republican Convention, NRC during the 3rd Republic, his reputation as a pro-democracy advocate has strengthened his standing. His influence extends beyond Nasarawa State, as his role in the Senate enables him to contribute to national policy discussions and engage with political leaders across Nigeria.

Almakura is a rare gift to the polity, an intelligent politician, strategist, crowd puller, a trader in ideas and reality; his strength lies in his powers of ideas and commitment to the lofty goals of life. Before joining politics, he was distinctly a brand of some sort. A glittering icon, having broken the jinx that a civil servant is only fit for direction and not action.

His Excellency has borne out the truth in the aphorism that a golden fish has no hiding place. His name stands for so many things: administrator, policy analyst, a great mind with an incredible blend of depth and breath.

Almakura is a moral, political and economic genius. He is the gifted leader who is able to attract a visionary followership to advance the cause of the people. This is his luck as a classic instance of visionary followership, unwavering devotion to a noble course.
There is something magical about his political career that blossoms from a business man to a political prodigy of mass mobilisation in politics. He is always ready to effect development of his people without any sentiment of a sort.

All the way, his story has been smooth and yet replete with testimonies of challenges which could have eclipsed his success had he not learnt to fight his battle like a determined soldier.

His school of politics is with a difference as he carries out his activities with civility and unrivalled panachei.
He is an embodiment of all the qualities found in a leader: a strength of character and tremendous self-control.
While consultations are ongoing many see Al-Makura as the man for the Job.

May God Bless Dist Sen. Umaru Tanko Almakura
May God Bless Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President Federal Republic of Nigeria
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Comr. Dr Donald Amagbo rpa.
Writes from Lafia, Nasarawa state