NIWRMC Chief Abdulmumini Zaria Withdraws from Kaduna Central Senate Race, Backs Tinubu Administration Agenda!

Reported by Mustapha Omolabake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa

Dr. Abdulmumini Zaria, a senior public official and head of the National Inland Waterways Regulatory and Monitoring Commission (NIWRMC), has formally withdrawn from the race for the Kaduna Central Senatorial seat, citing a renewed commitment to national service and alignment with the policy direction of the All Progressives Congress-led federal government.

In a statement released to the press, Zaria emphasized that his decision was guided by what he described as “a higher call to serve the nation at a strategic level,” particularly in supporting the economic and infrastructural priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. According to him, the evolving demands of governance and reform within Nigeria’s waterways sector require his full attention at a time when the government is pursuing ambitious development targets.

Zaria had initially signaled interest in representing Kaduna Central in the Senate, a district widely regarded as politically significant within Kaduna State due to its demographic diversity and strategic influence in northern Nigeria’s political landscape. His entry into the race had drawn attention from both party loyalists and political observers, given his technocratic background and administrative experience.

However, his withdrawal now reshapes the dynamics of the contest, potentially narrowing the field within the ruling party and opening the door for other aspirants to consolidate support. Analysts suggest that such moves are not uncommon in Nigeria’s political environment, where intra-party negotiations and strategic withdrawals often precede candidate selection processes.

Speaking further, Zaria reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged to mobilize support for the party’s eventual candidate in the Kaduna Central senatorial race. He also expressed confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu, noting that the administration’s economic reforms and infrastructure agenda require unity among stakeholders.

“The responsibility before us as public servants goes beyond personal ambition,” Zaria stated. “At this critical moment, our collective focus must remain on delivering sustainable development and strengthening national institutions.”

His decision comes amid ongoing efforts by the federal government to revitalize Nigeria’s inland waterways as part of a broader strategy to enhance transportation, boost trade, and reduce pressure on road networks. The NIWRMC, under Zaria’s leadership, has been involved in regulatory oversight and monitoring initiatives aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency across the country’s waterways.

Political observers note that Zaria’s withdrawal could be interpreted as a calculated move to maintain influence within the federal structure, particularly as the Tinubu administration continues to consolidate its governance agenda. It also underscores the broader trend of technocrats prioritizing executive roles over legislative ambitions in order to drive sector-specific reforms.

While reactions from political stakeholders in Kaduna remain measured, some party insiders have welcomed the decision, describing it as a demonstration of discipline and alignment with party priorities. Others, however, argue that his exit may reduce the diversity of options available to voters seeking candidates with administrative expertise.

The Kaduna Central senatorial race is expected to remain competitive, with multiple aspirants positioning themselves ahead of party primaries. As the political landscape evolves, attention will likely shift to how the APC manages internal consensus and candidate selection in one of its key strongholds.

Zaria concluded his statement by urging supporters to remain committed to the party and to prioritize national interest over individual political aspirations, reinforcing a message of unity and continuity within the ruling party.

Sources
Premium Times
TheCable
Channels Television
Vanguard

Mustapha Labake Omowumi

Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.

www.selemedia.org