Northern Youths Mobilize N200 Million for Tinubu's 2027 APC Presidential Nomination Form
In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Northern Nigeria Youth Leaders Forum has announced the successful mobilization of N200 million to purchase the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential nomination form for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This announcement was made during a high-level youth leadership and stakeholders' meeting held in Abuja on Monday, marking a strategic endorsement of Tinubu's potential second-term bid.
Formal Endorsement and Policy Continuity
The forum formally endorsed President Tinubu for a second term, emphasizing the critical need for policy continuity, consolidation of ongoing reforms, and long-term national development. According to a communiqué signed by the forum's National Leader, Murtala Gamji, and Director of Operations, Agbana John, this endorsement reflects a unified stance among northern youth across religious and ethnic divides.
The cheque for N200 million was presented to Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, the Director-General of the Tinubu Support Groups, symbolizing the youth's commitment to democratic participation and national unity. Gamji stated, "With the support of our boards of trustees and our grand patrons, many of whom are present here, and with the support of the Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group, who is also from the North, we have decided to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with N200m."
Launch of Renewed Hope Ambassadors Platform
As part of this initiative, the forum launched the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Platform, aimed at fostering structured youth inclusion in governance, advocacy, leadership development, and community engagement. This platform seeks to institutionalize youth participation through:
- Policy advocacy and grassroots enlightenment
- Leadership development programs
- Community engagement initiatives
- Partnerships with government institutions and private sector
The forum pledged to strengthen collaborations with traditional and community leaders, development partners, and private entities to promote youth-focused initiatives in entrepreneurship, civic education, and social stability.
Call for Peaceful Political Conduct
The communiqué further emphasized a commitment to peaceful, issue-based youth mobilization across Northern Nigeria, rejecting all forms of violence, misinformation, and divisive narratives. It urged Nigerian youths to actively engage in nation-building and called on public institutions to enhance youth-inclusive governance.
Gamji highlighted the unity among northern youths, citing endorsements from figures such as Nuhu Ribadu and leaders from all 19 northern states. He referenced the agreement between the late President Muhammadu Buhari and Tinubu, stating, "We also believe in the agreement between the late President Muhammadu Buhari and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu that Southern Nigeria should complete its eight years before power returns to the North."
Broader Political Context
This development occurs amidst ongoing debates within the APC regarding potential running mate selections for the 2027 elections. Notably, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has warned that dropping a Northern Muslim as Tinubu's running mate could impact the party's chances. Meanwhile, former Speaker Yakubu Dogara has expressed concerns over same-faith tickets, though he dismissed speculation linking him to a vice-presidential slot.
The Northern Nigeria Youth Leaders Forum's move underscores a strategic effort to consolidate support for Tinubu's re-election bid, focusing on democratic principles and national cohesion as the 2027 elections approach.
