Abuja: President Bola Tinubu on Thursday secured the North-East’s endorsement for a second term as regional leaders pledged overwhelming votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election. The endorsement came when governors, ministers, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and elder statesmen from the six North-East states paid a thank-you visit to the President at the State House, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the visit followed Tinubu’s decision to retain Vice-President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election. The delegation was led by Borno Governor and Chairman of the North-East Governors’ Forum, Prof. Babagana Zulum, alongside former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babagana Kingibe. Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Zulum described Tinubu’s decision as a demonstration of confidence in the region and recognition of loyalty, competence, and dedicated service.
Zulum remarked, “We are here for one overriding purpose, to show our appr
eciation and thank you most profoundly for the re-nomination of an accomplished son of our region, Sen. Kashim Shettima, as your vice-presidential running mate in the forthcoming 2027 presidential election.” He further noted that Shettima had served the President with distinction over the past three years, and his retention reflected continuity, political maturity, and strategic leadership.
The governor also commended leaders from the North-West and North-Central for supporting the decision, describing their position as evidence of unity within the ruling party. He praised Tinubu’s interventions in the North-East, citing ongoing road projects, investments in agriculture, education, and youth empowerment, as well as support for the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons. Zulum assured the President of the region’s unwavering support ahead of the next general election.
Earlier, Kingibe emphasized the importance of the delegation’s visit, highlighting that the leaders present were trusted voices across
the region. He stated that although many members were no longer active politicians, they would continue to explain government policies and mobilize support for the administration. Responding, Tinubu described the endorsement as emotional and reassuring, underscoring the enduring partnership between his administration and the North-East.
The President expressed gratitude to the stakeholders from the region for their confidence and pledged to consolidate ongoing reforms. He assured that his administration would focus on stabilizing the country, strengthening the polity, and growing the economy. Tinubu highlighted the fulfillment of key promises to the North-East, particularly in road infrastructure and security, and stressed the importance of collaboration to overcome challenges such as terrorism and banditry.
Tinubu expressed optimism about the benefits Nigerians would reap from his administration’s economic reforms. He also defended his handling of pension obligations, emphasizing efforts to clear inherited
liabilities. The President reiterated his commitment to Nigeria’s democratic stability and prosperity, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity. The meeting was attended by notable figures, including former Borno Governor, Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff, the Shehu of Borno, and other key government officials.