Former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel has once again urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu as the country grapples with persistent insecurity and economic difficulties. This marks the second time in about seven months that Emmanuel, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has rallied behind Tinubu, the leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Call for National Unity Amid Crisis
Stephen Abia, a lawyer and special assistant on media to Emmanuel, addressed reporters in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, on Sunday. He stated, “When nations face an existential crisis, leaders are bound to rally around the incumbent leadership in a bid to rescue and restore normalcy. Our case in Nigeria should not be different as we confront our current challenges.”
Nigeria faces complex security threats, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, alongside economic instability that undermines national peace. Abia noted that “the country’s macroeconomic ecosystem has some positive developments,” though he did not provide specific figures. He commended Tinubu for economic reforms that are beginning to show “positive impact” on key macroeconomic indicators.
Emmanuel’s Background and Previous Support
Udom Emmanuel, a corporate technocrat, chartered accountant, and former Zenith Bank executive, won the Akwa Ibom governorship election in 2015 under the PDP and secured re-election in 2019. His administration is credited with driving economic reforms and industrialization in the state.
In December 2025, Emmanuel had similarly called for support for Tinubu, advising Nigerians not to dwell on divisive factors. He said, “Rather, as a people, we must pull together to confront our common enemies by giving every necessary support to President Tinubu to enable him to face the challenges that are militating against the progressive movement upon which he has set our nation.”
Macroeconomic Optimism
Abia affirmed that as a participant in Nigeria’s economic and financial sector, he has observed improvements in critical economic indicators. He stated he “could not ignore the positive macroeconomic indicators emerging from the bold and far-reaching economic reforms undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” He expressed confidence that “in due course, these improvements in the macroeconomic fundamentals will translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians and strengthen the country’s overall economic well-being.”
He added that policies advancing the national interest deserve full support from all Nigerians and assured the president of Emmanuel’s backing to strengthen further reforms that promote economic growth, stability, and prosperity.
Plans for Emmanuel’s 60th Birthday
Emmanuel will turn 60 on 11 July. Regarding the celebration, Abia said, “As you are aware, Mr Emmanuel is a very private person who shies away from personal celebrations. However, reaching the age of 60 is a significant milestone, and he had previously agreed to his friends’ proposal to mark the occasion, but he has since cancelled the celebration. He has instead chosen to devote the day to a private retreat, during which he will offer private supplications and reflect on the critical themes of leadership, responsibility, and nation-building.”
