What do we know about Abbas Lawal Balarabe? Biography, education, political career

By Oluwayanmife Ayobami

President Bola Tinubu has nominated Abbas Balarabe as a replacement minister for Nasir El-Rufai. El-Rufai’s name was not included in the list of confirmed ministerial nominees, leaving Kaduna State without a nominee.

The replacement was conveyed through a letter read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the plenary. Abbas Lawal Balarabe was born on February 5, 1958, in Kachia Local Government, Kaduna State.

He has had a diverse and accomplished career in both the public and private sectors.

Abbas Educational Career

Balarabe started his educational journey at the Kofar Kuyambana Primary School, where he completed his primary education from 1964 to 1970. He then attended the prestigious Barewa College in Zaria from 1971 to 1975. After completing his secondary education, he furthered his studies at the Katsina College of Arts, Science, and Technology, graduating in 1978.

Driven by his passion for political science, Balarabe pursued his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, from 1978 to 1981. He continued his academic pursuits and obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science from the same institution in 1987.

Following his postgraduate studies, Balarabe Lawal embarked on a career in academia as a lecturer at the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He later joined the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) as a Principal Management Development Officer from July 1989 to August 1991. Afterward, he served at the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) as a Principal Manager (Administration) from July 1991 to 1999.

Abbas Political Career

With the return of democracy to Nigeria in 1999, Balarabe Lawal ventured into public service and held various significant positions. He first served as a Special Assistant to the Minister of State for Education from September 1999 to February 2001. During this time, he contributed to the education sector’s development and implementation of policies. He then transitioned to the role of Special Assistant to the Minister of State for the Army at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja from February 2001 to May 2003.

From July 2003 to July 2007, Balarabe Lawal served as a Special Assistant to the President in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. He also held the position of Chief of Staff to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he played a pivotal role in the administration’s activities.

In addition to his public service career, Balarabe Lawal has made significant contributions to the real estate sector. He is currently the Managing Director of Rightedge Property Nigeria Limited, a real estate and property management company based in Abuja, a position he has held since October 2008.

Balarabe’s dedication and commitment to public service led to his appointment as the Secretary to the State Government of Kaduna under the administration of Governor Nasir El-Rufai. From 2015 to May 2023, he served in this crucial role, contributing to the governance and development of Kaduna State.

Balarabe Lawal’s outstanding leadership skills and expertise extend to his involvement in agricultural activities. He actively participates in poultry, livestock, and crop production in Zaria Metropolis, showcasing his commitment to food security and agricultural development.

As a nominee for ministerial position, Balarabe Lawal has been chosen by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to serve in his cabinet, bringing his wealth of experience and expertise to the national level. His nomination reflects his exceptional track record and qualifications, making him a valuable asset to the government and the country as a whole.