Nasir El-Rufai

About Nasir El-Rufai

Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023. During his eight-year tenure, he became one of Nigeria's most visible state administrators.

El-Rufai was born on February 16, 1960. He grew up in northern Nigeria during a transformative period for the nation.

Before his governorship, he served as the minister of the Federal Capital Territory from 2003 to 2007. This role came under the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo. His work in Abuja shaped his administrative approach for years to come.

He was one of the founding members of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party became Nigeria's dominant political force in the 2015 general elections. El-Rufai rode this wave to victory in Kaduna State.

As governor, he implemented several reforms across the state. His tenure focused on infrastructure development and public service restructuring. Kaduna State's political landscape shifted under his leadership.

In November 2025, El-Rufai defected from the APC to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move signaled a significant change in his political alignment. His departure marked the end of his long association with the ruling party.

El-Rufai's career reflects the complexity of Nigerian politics. From federal minister to state governor to opposition politician, his path has been unconventional. He remains a prominent figure in Nigeria's political discourse.