Tinubu’s Second Term Bid Garners Support from Niger Delta Leader and Yoruba Group
President Bola Tinubu’s pursuit of a second term in office has received significant endorsements from influential figures and groups within Nigeria. Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, a prominent leader in the Niger Delta region, and the Yoruba Aborigines Progressive Initiative (YAPI), a socio-cultural group representing the Yoruba people, have both publicly declared their support for Tinubu’s reelection bid. Their endorsements underscore the growing momentum behind the president’s campaign and highlight the perceived successes of his administration across various sectors.
Tompolo, the chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, lauded Tinubu as a transformative leader capable of navigating complex challenges and steering Nigeria towards sustainable development. He specifically commended Tinubu’s efforts in combating crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, crediting the president with significantly boosting the nation’s crude oil production. This increase in production, from 600,000 barrels per day to approximately 1.8 million barrels per day, represents a substantial economic gain for Nigeria and reinforces Tompolo’s conviction in Tinubu’s leadership.
The Yoruba Aborigines Progressive Initiative, through its chairman Olushola John and spokesperson Olatubosun Awonuga, echoed Tompolo’s endorsement, emphasizing Tinubu’s policy initiatives as key drivers of national progress. They cited the introduction of student loan facilities, the removal of customs duties on imported pharmaceuticals to enhance affordability, and ongoing efforts to address rising food costs as impactful measures benefiting the Nigerian populace. YAPI also highlighted the significance of the fuel subsidy removal, the revitalization of national refineries, and the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy as milestones achieved under Tinubu’s leadership.
Both Tompolo and YAPI expressed their unwavering commitment to supporting Tinubu’s reelection campaign. Tompolo pledged to mobilize support within the Niger Delta region, emphasizing the president’s commitment to the region’s development. YAPI, while acknowledging the diverse range of groups endorsing Tinubu, underscored their dedication to national progress and their belief in Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria. These endorsements, originating from distinct regions and representing diverse interests, signify the broadening base of support for Tinubu’s second term aspirations.
Tompolo further elaborated on the Tinubu administration’s economic achievements, citing a doubling of aggregate revenue to over N9.1 trillion, a reduction in debt servicing costs from 97% to 68%, the clearance of $5 billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations, and the revitalization of the oil and gas sector. He also highlighted the establishment of the Compressed Natural Gas initiative, the Student Loan Fund with disbursements of N45.6 billion, the unlocking of a $700 billion mining potential through reforms in the solid minerals sector, and significant infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway. The signing into law of the bill establishing the Nigeria Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State, was also mentioned as a key achievement.
These endorsements from Tompolo and YAPI represent significant support for Tinubu’s reelection bid, coming from influential voices representing the Niger Delta and the Yoruba people. Their praise for Tinubu’s economic policies, security initiatives, and infrastructural development underscores the administration’s perceived accomplishments and resonates with a broader narrative of progress and transformation. As the 2027 election approaches, these endorsements contribute to the growing momentum behind Tinubu’s campaign and highlight the diverse range of stakeholders invested in his vision for Nigeria’s future.
