Governor Fintiri Defects to APC, Pledges Support for Tinubu's Vision
In a significant political realignment, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his full backing for President Bola Tinubu's agenda. This move is set to reshape early political calculations as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, signaling a major shift in the nation's political landscape.
Vice President Shettima Welcomes Fintiri as Strategic Partner
Vice President Kashim Shettima formally received Governor Fintiri and his supporters into the ruling party during a ceremony held on Monday in Yola. Shettima described the governor's defection as a strategic alignment with a shared vision aimed at building a functional and responsive Nigerian state. Addressing a large crowd at the Mahmud Ribadu Square, the Vice President emphasized that Fintiri and his followers were not joining the APC as outsiders but as integral partners in a collective mission to deliver effective governance.
"On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I warmly welcome you, Governor Fintiri, and your supporters. You are not strangers to this house; you are partners in a shared mission, to build a nation that works, a democracy that delivers, and a future that meets the aspirations of our people," Shettima stated. He further characterized democracy as a "marketplace of choices," where leadership decisions must strengthen institutions, noting that the APC under Tinubu has demonstrated progressive governance capable of attracting broad-based support.
Growing Confidence in APC's Governance and Vision
According to Shettima, the increasing influx of political actors into the APC reflects rising public confidence in the party's structure, vision, and capacity to manage national challenges. He highlighted that Fintiri's entry brings valuable governance experience and fresh perspectives, which will strengthen the party's policy direction. "Political parties must evolve and draw strength from diversity of thought. This convergence is not an end, but a renewal of purpose and hope," he added.
The Vice President also commended Fintiri's record in Adamawa State, citing infrastructure development and public works as evidence of results-driven leadership. Earlier, APC National Chairman Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda praised the governor's performance in office, particularly in road infrastructure, education, and healthcare, describing him as "too impactful to remain in the opposition."
Political Leaders Hail Fintiri's Move as a Game-Changer
Deputy President of the Senate Jibrin Barau, representing the Senate President, stated that Fintiri's decision places Adamawa within the mainstream of national politics and opens new avenues for collaboration at the federal level. Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, described the APC as a dominant political platform driven by President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. He expressed confidence that Fintiri's entry would accelerate development in Adamawa State.
Fintiri's Motivation and Pledge for APC's Success
In his remarks, Governor Fintiri explained that his decision to join the APC was informed by the need to align with the policies and programs of the Tinubu administration, particularly its economic reforms. "Mr. President has taken bold steps that are placing the country on a recovery path. We have joined forces to support him and ensure victory for the APC in 2027," he said. The governor pledged to mobilize support for the ruling party in Adamawa State, expressing confidence that the APC would secure a decisive victory in the next general elections. He also reiterated his position that the South should complete its eight-year tenure.
Symbolic Gestures and Traditional Engagement
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the APC flag to Fintiri, officially recognizing him as the leader of the party in Adamawa State. Meanwhile, Vice President Shettima later paid a courtesy visit to the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, where he reaffirmed the Tinubu administration's commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as key partners in grassroots governance. The monarch commended President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their leadership and dedication to national development.
