Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, has called for renewed national unity, civic responsibility and a collective commitment to building a more stable and prosperous Nigeria.
Al-Makura said the country’s progress depends largely on the willingness of citizens to work together across political, religious and cultural divides.
He made the remarks in a statement issued on Friday while marking his 73rd birthday.
The former governor said unity was not merely an ideal but a necessary foundation for development, especially as Nigeria grapples with economic pressures and prepares for the political complexities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reflecting on his public service journey, Al-Makura said his career had been shaped by curiosity, compassion and an early understanding that leadership is a trust that must serve the collective good.
Al-Makura recalled that his administration prioritised rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening institutions and ensuring community participation in governance.
He also underscored the importance of mentorship, stressing that Nigeria’s future will be determined by the quality of young leaders who embrace discipline, responsibility and clarity of purpose.
According to him, the country must invest in raising a generation that upholds integrity, ethical governance and the courage to make difficult national choices. Leadership, he added, must always be seen as a service rather than a privilege.
Al-Makura noted that Nigeria’s social and political diversity is a strength that must be harnessed through dialogue and mutual respect.
The former governor urged political actors and community leaders to prioritise reconciliation over division, saying national cohesion is essential for economic stability and long-term development. Bridge-building, he said, has long guided his public philosophy.
Speaking on the challenges he has faced in public life, Al-Makura said resilience remains one of the most vital qualities of effective leadership.
He noted that setbacks and scrutiny are inevitable for anyone holding public trust, but the true measure of leadership is the ability to learn, adapt and maintain moral clarity in difficult times.
Al-Makura reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals of the All Progressives Congress, saying his loyalty to the party is anchored on principle and a shared vision, not personal ambition.
He stressed that party politics must never overshadow the pursuit of national interest and that political institutions must remain responsive to citizens’ needs.
The former senator also highlighted the importance of inclusive growth and social justice, calling for policies that uplift marginalised groups and expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.
According to him, no nation can prosper when parts of its population are excluded from education, economic advancement and civic participation.
As he turned 73, the senator expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, describing hope as a deliberate choice rooted in responsibility.
He urged Nigerians to reject cynicism and believe in the country’s ability to rebuild through shared sacrifice and principled leadership, adding that the path to national renewal lies in unity, resilience and a collective commitment to the common good.
