27/08/2025
From Grassroots to the Speaker’s Chair: The Journey of Danladi Jatau PhD
Born on March 21, 1968, in Angiri Bassa, Kokona LGA of Nasarawa State. Danladi Jatau's rise is rooted in his unwavering belief in education’s transformative power.
He started at Ikka Primary School Nasarawa Eggon, from where he went on to Federal Government College Ikot Ekpene, and later earned degrees from the College of Education, Akwanga; University of Calabar; and his Master’s and PhD from Benue State University, Makurdi.
Dr. Jatau’s political journey began in 1997 when he was elected Councillor of Bassa Electoral Ward in Kokona LG, and re-elected in 1999.
He then served as Speaker of the Kokona Local Government Legislative Council, and later as Chairman of Agwada Development Area in 2002. From 2003 to 2011, he furthered his experience as Special Assistant to Deputy Governor and later Minister of Information Labaran Maku .
In 2011, he made a leap to the Nasarawa State House of Assembly representing Kokona West Constituency.
After serving in the 4th Assembly, he returned in 2019 and again in 2023. His legislative career includes roles as Minority Leader and Deputy Majority Leader .
Following a court ruling in December 2023, Jatau emerged unanimously as Speaker of the 7th Assembly, marking his ascent to the position of the state's Number Three citizen .
During his tenure as Speaker, Jatau has emphasized inclusivity, peace, and effective collaboration across political, ethnic, and religious lines earning him praise as a unifying force and progressive leader .
Under his leadership, the House has remained stable, passed meaningful legislation, and maintained synergy with the executive arm to fast-track state development.
He has directed impactful constituency projects, including:
Drilling over 30 boreholes
Renovating schools
Installing and repairing transformers
Providing employment and mobility support (vehicles, motorcycles)
Distributing humanitarian aid amid subsidy removal hardships, etc.
Jatau's efforts have earned him traditional titles such as Garkuwan Eggon World Wide, Magayaki Agwada, Ubangarin Kokona, and recognition as a Peace Broker and Most Outstanding Speaker.
To be continued...