By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO: The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has congratulated former Governor of the state, Alhaji Dr. Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, on his 72nd birthday, describing him as an elder statesman whose decades of public service, grassroots political engagement and contributions to the development of Sokoto State have earned him an enduring place in the history of the state.

Dan’iya, in a congratulatory message issued by his Media Aide, Aminu Abdullahi, described Bafarawa as a veteran politician, administrator and community leader whose public career had spanned several decades, from grassroots politics and local government administration to the governorship of Sokoto State between 1999 and 2007.

He said Bafarawa’s political journey had been characterized by resilience, experience and sustained engagement with issues affecting the people of Sokoto State and Nigeria.

Dan’iya particularly acknowledged the former governor’s emphasis on education, healthcare, infrastructure and human development during his administration, noting that his government had identified expansion of educational opportunities, training of medical personnel, road construction and extension of electricity to communities as key areas of development.

The ADC candidate said Bafarawa’s contributions should be viewed beyond his years in office, stressing that his wealth of political experience and knowledge of Sokoto’s political and socio-economic evolution remained valuable to younger generations.

He maintained that contemporary political leaders had a responsibility to learn from the experiences of previous generations while developing institutions and policies capable of responding effectively to the changing needs of the people.

Dan’iya described Bafarawa as an important repository of political experience and historical knowledge, saying his understanding of Sokoto’s political development could continue to provide valuable lessons for emerging leaders.

He stressed that Nigeria, particularly at this critical stage of its democratic development, needed experienced statesmen who could provide constructive counsel on governance, peace, development and democratic consolidation.

The ADC governorship candidate prayed Almighty Allah to continue to grant the former governor good health, wisdom, peace of mind and renewed strength to enable him contribute meaningfully to the development and peaceful progress of Sokoto State and Nigeria.

He also prayed for many more years of fulfilment, happiness and abundant blessings for Bafarawa, wishing him continued strength and the support of his family, friends and well-wishers as he enters another year of his life.

Dan’iya further expressed appreciation for Bafarawa’s decades of service to the people, describing his 72nd birthday as an opportunity to celebrate not only a personal milestone but also his long-standing contribution to public service and political development in Sokoto State.

He wished the former governor many more fruitful and peaceful years in good health, praying that Almighty Allah would continue to bless his life and service to humanity.