North Central APC Stakeholders Rally Behind Tinubu for 2027 Presidential Election
In a significant political development, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, spearheaded a unanimous endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general election. The pivotal decision was made during the North Central APC Congress held in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.
Unanimous Ratification by Regional Leaders
The endorsement was formally ratified by a broad coalition of stakeholders from the North Central zone, including governors, ministers, party chieftains, and grassroots mobilisers. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State seconded the motion proposed by Akume, which received thunderous approval from the assembly. A subsequent voice vote confirmed Tinubu as the consensus candidate, with no dissenting voices recorded, underscoring the region's unified support.
Akume Highlights Strategic Role of North Central Zone
Addressing the gathering, Akume, a former governor of Benue State and a recognised leader of the APC in the North Central geo-political zone, described the endorsement as both a responsibility and a strategic necessity. He emphasised the region's historic role in sustaining Nigeria's unity and political stability, referring to it as the "glue" that binds the country's diverse ethnic nationalities. Akume praised the sacrifices made by the zone in preserving Nigeria's territorial integrity and highlighted its contributions to progressive governance across states such as Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Commendation for Governance and Economic Progress
Akume commended governors in the zone for their exceptional performance, attributing their achievements to reforms initiated by the Tinubu administration. He noted that ministers from the region are serving with distinction, reinforcing its strategic importance in the current government. With Nigeria approaching another electoral cycle, Akume expressed confidence in the North Central's ability to deliver the highest number of votes in 2027, citing the calibre of politicians and grassroots leaders present. However, he cautioned against complacency, urging party members to intensify mobilisation efforts to ensure a decisive victory.
Economic Indicators and Fiscal Reforms Cited
The SGF referenced improving economic indicators under the Tinubu administration, particularly noting the Central Bank of Nigeria's report of $51 billion in foreign reserves as a mark of achievement. In his remarks, Governor Sule attributed the enhanced fiscal capacity of states to the administration's reforms, revealing that some states are now executing projects without borrowing. He stated, "As a result of these reforms, some of us are carrying out projects without borrowing a penny; for that reason, I second the motion to adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as our sole candidate for 2027."
Congress Positions North Central as Early Support Bloc
The congress, attended by governors, deputy governors, ministers, and key party stakeholders from across the North Central, positions the zone as one of the early blocs to rally behind Tinubu's re-election bid. This endorsement sets a precedent for other regions and underscores the APC's internal cohesion as the 2027 elections approach, highlighting the party's focus on continuity and economic progress.
