From Tom Garba,Yola
In a bold and widely anticipated move, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the dynamic Former Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 House of Representatives election for the Yola South, Yola North, and Girei Federal Constituency.
Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished technocrats in Nigeria’s power sector, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo brings a formidable record of transformative leadership and proven delivery to the race.
Under his stewardship at the REA, the agency has recorded remarkable strides in expanding electricity access to rural and underserved communities across the country, driving key government initiatives on renewable energy and power infrastructure development with professionalism and measurable results.
Speaking on his decision to run, the REA chief expressed deep commitment to the people of his constituency, promising to bring the same energy, innovation, and results-oriented governance that has distinguished his public service career to legislative representation.
Firmly Debunking Origin Rumours
Engr. Ahmad Salihijo used the occasion to decisively address and debunk baseless rumours circulating about his local government origin. He categorically affirmed that he hails from Yola South Local Government Area, where his roots run deep.
According to him though his Mother who hails from Mayo Belwa but in the context of tradition and ancestral history he chooses to follow his paternal roots which is Yola South and what is obtainable and the norm in Adamawa and Africa.
“I am from the Wali Family of Yola, with a well-documented heritage in Yola South. My father and entire family lineage are proudly rooted in Yola. There is no patternal connection whatsoever to Mayo Belwa Local Government Area, only my Mother is connected to that area,” he stated firmly.
Political observers note that the rumours appear to be a desperate campaign of calumny orchestrated by political opponents unsettled by Engr. Ahmad Salihijo’s overwhelming acceptance and growing popularity across the federal constituency.
His impressive credentials, accessibility, and proven track record in national service have resonated strongly with constituents, positioning him as a formidable contender capable of delivering effective representation at the national level.
Supporters describe him as a bridge-builder, a development-focused leader, and a fresh voice that can effectively champion the interests of Yola South, Yola North, and Girei at the Green Chamber. Many believe his emergence signals a new era of competent and visionary representation for the area.
“My roots in Yola South are well documented. My father is of the Wali family of Yola, and that is a matter of record. But I do not see Adamawa through the lens of local government lines.
“Every local government in Adamawa State is my local government because we are all the same people with the same aspirations.
“My commitment as MD/CEO of REA has always been to all 21 LGAs, and that will not change when I represent the Yola South, Yola North, and Girei Federal Constituency,” Engr. Ahmad concluded.
As the political atmosphere in Adamawa State heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad’s declaration has already generated significant excitement and endorsements from critical stakeholders who see him as the ideal candidate to elevate the constituency’s profile and accelerate its socio-economic development.
His entry into the race is expected to reshape the political dynamics in the federal constituency.
