AMANA

Professor Abubakar Sulaiman

Full Name:
Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman
Electoral Intent:
Speculated Gubernatorial Aspirant – Kwara State (2027)
Current Political Role:
Director-General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS)
Date of Birth:
October 16, 1965 (60 years)
State of Origin:
Kwara State
Hometown:
Ilorin
LGA:
Ilorin West
Ward:
Ajikobi
Political Party:
All Progressives Congress (APC)

Biography

Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman popularly known as “AMANA” (Hausa for “Trustworthy”), is a renowned Nigerian professor of Political Science, ex-Minister, and public-administration specialist who has played key roles in governance, policy formulation, and legislative strengthening. Born into the family of the late Alhaji Sulaiman Ajimati, a respected Muslim cleric and Imam in Lagos, Sulaiman rose from humble beginnings to become a beacon of transformative leadership in Kwara State and beyond.

He is best known for his tenure as Minister of National Planning (2014–2015) under President Goodluck Jonathan and his ongoing leadership as Director-General of NILDS, where he has been instrumental in advancing legislative capacity building, research, and democratic consolidation in Nigeria.

Education

  • Alore Primary School, Ilorin
  • Government Secondary School, Ballah
  • B.Sc. Political Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1990)
  • M.Sc. International Relations & Strategic Studies, University of Jos (1995)
  • Ph.D. International Relations, University of Abuja (2003)

Professional Career

Professor Sulaiman is a renowned academic and public policy expert with over two decades of experience in Political Science and International Relations. He serves as a Professor at the University of Abuja, where his research focuses on democratic governance, legislative studies, and public policy. As Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), he leads efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative framework and promote democratic reforms through training and research.

Sulaiman previously served as Minister of National Planning and Deputy Chairman of the National Planning Commission (2014–2015) under President Goodluck Jonathan, where he contributed to economic planning and national development policies. His leadership at NILDS and prior ministerial role highlight his expertise in governance and institutional reform.

As the founder of the Amana Foundation, Sulaiman has impacted thousands through initiatives in education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and community development, cementing his reputation as a compassionate and forward-thinking leader.

Political Journey

2014 - 2015
-
Minister of National Planning
2014 - 2015
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Deputy Chairman National Planning Commission
2018
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Contested PDP governorship primary in Kwara
2019 - 2023
-
Director-General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS)
2023 - Present
-
Reappointed as the DG, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS)

2027 Political Outlook

Professor Sulaiman’s extensive experience in academia, public service, and philanthropy fuels speculation about his potential candidacy for the 2027 Kwara State Governorship Election. His reputation as a scholar, reformer, and advocate for inclusive governance makes him a compelling figure for leadership in Kwara State. While he has not publicly declared his intent, his growing influence and grassroots appeal through the Amana Foundation position him as a potential unifying candidate with both intellectual depth and practical governance experience.

In The News

Disclaimer

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