Abubakar Danladi Umar (Barde): The Rising Political Star to Watch in Southern Taraba
By Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo.
In the dynamic political landscape of Taraba State, one name has been generating increasing buzz—Abubakar Danladi Umar popularly known as Barde.
A young, charismatic, and visionary leader, Barde is fast emerging as a formidable force in Southern Taraba’s politics, capturing the attention of both grassroots supporters, Stakeholders and political analysts.
A Grassroots Leader with a Vision:
Barde’s political journey is rooted in his deep connection with the people. Unlike many politicians who rely on elite networks, he has built his reputation through consistent grassroots engagement. His ability to listen to the concerns of young people, students,farmers and traders has earned him loyalty.Whether advocating for better infrastructure, education, or agricultural support, Barde’s policies reflect a keen understanding of Southern Taraba’s unique challenges especially in his very own Constituency, Takum, Ussa, Donga and Yangtu Development Area.
Youthful Energy Meets Political Savvy:At a time when Nigerian politics is witnessing a generational shift, Barde represents the new wave of leaders who combine youthful energy with strategic thinking. His articulate speeches, digital-savvy campaigns,Leadership foresight and inclusive approach have made him a favorite among young voters, community leaders and stakeholders across political,ethnic and religious lines. Unlike traditional politicians, he leverages social media to engage constituents, making governance more transparent and accessible.
Bridging Divides in a Diverse Region:Southern Taraba is a melting pot of ethnic and religious diversity, often leading to political tensions. However, Barde has positioned himself as a unifying force, emphasizing development,unity,peace and solidarity over division. His ability to navigate complex socio-political dynamics while maintaining broad-based support speaks to his diplomatic acumen.
His education, family and career background:
Abubakar Danladi Umar, widely known as Barde,was born on July 1982 in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State.He is a Nigerian Leader recognized for his dynamic contributions to youth mobilization, political communication, grassroots engagement,and public administration.Fluent in English and Hausa,and married with children,Barde combines family values with a strong sense of service, transparency and inclusivity.
He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Education from the Prestigious Bayero University,Kano in 2008 where he was an active Students Leader.He later earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication in 2013. In 2014, he completed his Master’s Degree in Security and Strategic Studies at Nasarawa State University,Keffi.
His academic background is further enriched by certifications and international exposure, including the MBA (Global) Master’s Class at Curtin University,Dubai (2019),the 2nd Pan-African Youth Forum in Addis Ababa (2019), and a Monitoring and Evaluation Programme at the University of Carolina (2008).
Barde’s career spans both the private and public sectors. He began at Fin bank Plc during his NYSC (2008-2009), later working with NigMUNs and MTN Nigeria,where he rose to become Manager of Customer Relations (2011-2015).His political and public service journey grew with his role as Deputy National Coordinator of the Buhari New Media Centre in 2018 and as Special Assistant to the Minister of Youth Affairs (2018-2019).He also served as Secretary, Directorate of Youth Mobilization for the APC Presidential Campaign Council in Taraba State (2019) and played a strategic role in the Women and Youth Presidential Campaign Team.
In 2022,he was appointed Special Assistant to the President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF),a role he continues to hold till date. That same year,he Chaired the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Convention and in 2023, he became a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council for the Northeast.
Barde is widely respected for his administrative competence, political foresight and ability to mobilize grassroots communities. His professional strengths include Human Resource Management, Negation,Financial Analysis, and Strategic Communication.Personally,he is known for his emotional intelligence, ethical standards and innovative problem-solving.He continues to stand out as a Rescue Driven Leader and an asset to Nigeria s public service and national development.
The Road Ahead:As the 2027 elections approaches, political observers, constituents and political associates are watching Barde closely, especially now that he has indicated interest in the House of Representatives Race for Takum, Ussa, Donga and Yangtu Development Area come 2027. The big question on their lips is,Can he translate his growing influence into tangible policy impact on his Constituency? One thing is certain: Abubakar Barde is a name that will shape TUDY and Southern Taraba’s future.
For now, he remains the most popular Aspirant and giant force in the TUDY Race, a beacon of hope for many,a Unifier,and leader whose rise symbolizes the potential for progressive change in Nigeria’s often turbulent political arena.
