A powerful demonstration of political solidarity unfolded in Abuja as All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors from the North Central zone, along with key party stakeholders and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, converged to express their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and endorse his bid for a second term in 2027. This high-level meeting, held on a Wednesday night, culminated in a communiqué released the following day, underscoring the region’s firm belief in Tinubu’s leadership and his transformative agenda for the nation.
The meeting was a veritable who’s who of the North Central APC political landscape. In attendance were Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger, Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi, and Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue. Their presence was complemented by that of SGF George Akume, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and a cohort of influential figures, including former governors Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau, Yahaya Bello of Kogi, and Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger. The gathering also included former Deputy Speaker Ahmed Wase, alongside several ministers from the Tinubu cabinet.
The communiqué, a testament to the region’s unified stance, meticulously articulated the reasons behind their endorsement. Governor Sule of Nasarawa, who read and signed the document, highlighted SGF Akume’s motion urging the North Central to rally behind President Tinubu’s re-election bid. The communiqué extolled Tinubu’s developmental strides across the region, emphasizing projects in infrastructure, road rehabilitation, education, rural electrification, and agriculture – initiatives they believe are propelling the North Central towards becoming a hub of progress and opportunity. This endorsement was framed as recognition of Tinubu’s “courage, foresight, and tenacity” in navigating complex national challenges.
Beyond infrastructure, the North Central leaders lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusivity and meritocracy, particularly in his appointments to key federal government positions. They expressed appreciation for the representation of their region in these appointments, viewing it as a testament to Tinubu’s dedication to equitable national development and a validation of their region’s contributions to the nation’s progress. The communiqué further affirmed their commitment to bolstering the APC’s grassroots structures, fostering unity within the party’s ranks, and actively supporting government policies focused on security, job creation, and economic revitalization.
The North Central leaders specifically commended Tinubu’s decisive economic reforms, including the implementation of crucial, albeit challenging, fiscal policies aimed at securing long-term national prosperity. They acknowledged the initial difficulties encountered during the transition period but expressed confidence that the reforms were already yielding positive results across various economic indicators, signaling a promising trajectory for the nation’s economic future. Their unwavering support underscored a belief that President Tinubu’s leadership is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and development.
Governor AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, the North Central APC Coordinator, further amplified the region’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s policies. He particularly highlighted the National Forest Guard policy, a bold initiative aimed at integrating local communities into the nation’s security architecture. He lauded the establishment of the North Central Development Commission, a fulfillment of a request made to the President just a year prior. Governor AbdulRazaq expressed optimism that the Forest Guard policy would effectively safeguard forests and mitigate threats to lives, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity. APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, echoing the sentiment of the gathering, praised President Tinubu’s reforms and their positive impact on the party’s image, asserting that the APC was becoming increasingly attractive as the party of choice for Nigerians. This convergence of regional leaders, their resounding endorsement of President Tinubu, and their unwavering belief in his transformative agenda paint a picture of strong political alignment and shared vision for the future of the North Central zone and Nigeria as a whole.
