Sule Lamido is a seasoned Nigerian politician who served as the governor of Jigawa State from 2007 to 2015 and held the position of Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs between 1999 and 2003. As a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he is recognized for his dedication to democracy, social justice, and national progress. Lamido has played influential roles in Nigeria’s political landscape and is regarded as a respected statesman and unifier.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Sule Lamido |
| Date of Birth | August 30, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Bamaina, Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1 million – $5 million |
| Spouse | Hajiya Maryam Sule Lamido |
| Children | Eleven |
Early Life and Education
Born on August 30, 1948, in Bamaina village within Birnin Kudu Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Nigeria, Lamido began his education at Birnin Kudu Primary School in 1955.
He continued his secondary education at Barewa College, Zaria, and later pursued Railway Engineering at the Permanent Way Training School in Zaria.
Prior to his political career, he worked as a Quality Control Officer at the Nigerian Tobacco Company and held roles in Bamaina Holding Company.
Career
Lamido’s political journey began during Nigeria’s Second Republic as a member of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), serving as a representative for Birnin Kudu in the House of Representatives from 1979 to 1983.
In the Third Republic, he was the National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and was actively involved in the political activities surrounding the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election.
During General Sani Abacha’s regime, he co-founded the Social Progressive Party and was imprisoned in 1998 for opposing Abacha’s attempt to extend his rule. After Abacha’s death, Lamido joined the PDP and ran unsuccessfully for governor in 1999.
In 1999, President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, a role he held until 2003. As Foreign Minister, Lamido worked to rebuild Nigeria’s international relationships and represented the country in key global forums.
Lamido was elected governor of Jigawa State in 2007 and re-elected in 2011. His administration prioritized infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, empowerment initiatives, and rural development.
Among his notable achievements was the construction of Dutse International Airport, enhancing the state’s connectivity.
Despite his accomplishments, Lamido faced legal scrutiny when, in 2015, he and two of his sons were investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of misappropriating state funds.
Personal Life
Sule Lamido is married to Hajiya Maryam Sule Lamido, and together they have children children, including their daughter Hadiza Sule Lamido. The family generally keeps a low public profile, with only a few members known publicly.
Sule Lamido Net Worth
Lamido’s net worth is estimated to range between $1 million and $5 million, derived from his political career, investments, and business ventures, though exact figures remain private.
Honors
In April 2025, Lamido was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Vanguard Media Limited, recognizing his significant contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and development.
He is widely regarded as a principled leader who has consistently championed justice, fairness, and freedom throughout his career.
