Three years ago, Umar Nasko contested for the governorship election under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Niger State. However, he lost to the incumbent governor, Sanni Bello. Many had been shocked over his loss, especially because of his closeness to the then governor, Aliyu Babangida. Rather than continue to lick his wounds, he has re-dedicated himself to the plight of his people to the chagrin of all. For this, he was able to win the hearts of his supporters and people of Niger State; hence, his rising profile.
In appreciation of his gesture, they are currently yearning for him to once again throw his hat into the ring for the number one job of the state.
Although there have been rumours from naysayers that he had lost his political relevance due to his short absence from the political scene in the state, a source revealed that the handsome young man has been busy with his philanthropic gestures that have further endeared him to the people in the state.
“Nasko is actively involved with his foundation, Umar Nasko Foundation, which has been training youths on skills development, while also providing aid to amputees. So, the people of the state are making a clarion call on him to vie for the position of governor in order to rescue them from the shackles of deprivation, underdevelopment and want,’’ a source revealed.
Nasko, whose stickers and posters have started dotting the nooks and crannies of the state, was quoted to have stated that his short disappearance was to allow the incumbent have ample time to fulfill his electoral promises and move the state forward.
“After elections, you allow the winner to fulfill his promises. He is a full member of the PDP and looking up to God for direction in 2019,†the source added.
Nasko resigned as Chief of Staff to former Governor Aliyu Babangida, when he emerged as the candidate of PDP by defeating the then deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Ahmed Musa Ibeto and many others during the primaries.
Young and talented Nasko, a.k.a Sarkin Aiki (King of work), has served on various boards and committees in the state, where he made immense contributions. He was a member of the Transition Committee in Niger State; Member, Niger State Government Committee on Public Private Partnership 2007; Chairman, Vehicle Verification Committee in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Niger State; Member, Technical Committee on Harmonisation of Niger State Action Plan; Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the 2009 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST).
He was also member, Niger State Executive Council in his official capacity as the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Ministry of Youth Development, Special Adviser on Tourism Matters and Ministry of Environment, Parks, Gardens and Forest Resources. He also served as the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Niger State until December, 2014. He became a managing partner at New Africa Investment Limited between 2001 and 2007 after 10 years of meritorious service in the banking sector.
