Why Adamawa’s ‘Tested Hand’ Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei Is the Transformation Candidate-Prof Waziri

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a strongly worded opinion piece, Prof. M. Waziri has thrown his weight behind Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, describing the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial aspirant as the most credible “transformation candidate” for Adamawa State’s 2027 governorship election.

Prof. Waziri hailed Dr. Girei’s extensive public service record, calling him a “veteran administrator and education specialist” whose contributions have significantly impacted the state’s education sector and grassroots development.

According to the professor, Dr. Girei earned the moniker “Tested Hand” due to his proven track record of delivering results across multiple positions.

As Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), he oversaw the construction and rehabilitation of numerous storey school buildings in both urban and rural areas.

These efforts reportedly improved learning environments, reduced regional disparities, increased enrollment, and enhanced teacher training programs.

“Thousands of pupils in underserved areas now have better access to quality basic education because of his leadership,” Prof. Waziri stated.

Dr. Girei later served as Commissioner for Higher Education and subsequently as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. In the latter role, he introduced joint accounts for local government projects to promote transparency and inclusive development.

At the federal level, he served as Deputy Director of Research and Development at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), where he deepened expertise in educational infrastructure funding and human capital development.

Prof. Waziri noted that Dr. Girei’s international collaboration, including research work with the University of Sussex on primary education, underscores his commitment to evidence-based policies.

The aspirant’s proposed Adamawa Transformation Mission focuses on key priorities including security through community engagement, revitalization of education, boosting agricultural productivity for food security and job creation, improved healthcare, economic growth, peace-building, and servant leadership.

“These are not empty promises but logical extensions of a career already defined by tangible achievements,” the professor wrote.

Support for Dr. Girei’s ambition has reportedly grown significantly, with over 1,000 coordinators, APC stakeholders, former Governor Admiral Murtala Nyako, youth groups like the Nigeria Indigenous Languages Development Council (NILDC), traditional rulers, technocrats, farmers, students, and party leaders across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas endorsing him. Rallies and declarations at APC secretariats have continued to demonstrate what supporters describe as an organic movement.

At 54 years old, with deep roots in Girei Local Government Area and substantial federal experience, Dr. Girei is presented as a leader capable of addressing rural challenges while attracting national resources and partnerships.

Prof. Waziri concluded his piece by praying for Dr. Girei’s success and stating: “Well done, and Good luck, Dr. Girei. Adamawa is ready for the transformation you represent.”

The endorsement adds to the growing list of voices within the APC and across Adamawa State calling for experienced leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.