Northern Governors Declare Full Backing for Tinubu Amid Development Gains

Northern governors have restated their strong support for President Bola Tinubu, saying his administration has delivered key promises and initiated major projects across the region.

The declaration was made during a high-level interactive session held in Kaduna, where leaders and citizens gathered to review the federal government’s performance since 2023.

At the event, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who also chairs the Northern States Governors Forum, said the North has begun to benefit from the promises made during Tinubu’s campaign. The two-day session, organised by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, focused on how government and citizens can work together to build unity and hold leaders accountable.

Governor Yahaya noted that Tinubu’s victory was largely supported by the North, which delivered over 60% of the total votes. He said the region is now seeing the results of that alliance through major infrastructure and economic projects. These include the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, the Kaduna refinery rehabilitation, the Abuja-Kano gas pipeline, and oil drilling in the Kolmani fields.

He also pointed to new plans such as the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and improvements in roads, agriculture, and healthcare. He said these efforts show a clear focus on lifting the region’s economy and improving the lives of its people.

On security, Governor Yahaya said over 300 terrorist and bandit commanders have been eliminated recently due to better coordination among security agencies. He admitted that security challenges still exist but said progress is being made in restoring peace.

He also praised the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, calling it a timely response to the herder-farmer crisis. On education and youth empowerment, he acknowledged federal support, including grants and new programmes to address the Almajiri issue and reduce the number of out-of-school children through partnerships with state governments and traditional rulers.

Addressing the economy, the governor said reforms like the removal of fuel subsidies and changes to the exchange rate have caused hardship but are necessary for long-term progress. He called on other northern leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to support federal efforts with strong local initiatives in education, infrastructure, and social services.

Governor Yahaya urged the North to assess Tinubu’s government based on what has been done so far. He argued that the president has shown commitment to fulfilling his promises and deserves continued backing ahead of the 2027 elections.

He closed by calling for ongoing dialogue between the government and the people. Citing the legacy of Ahmadu Bello, he said unity between the North and Southwest remains vital to Nigeria’s stability and future.

The event brought together representatives from across the region, including youth leaders, civil society groups, traditional rulers, and senior officials. Discussions are expected to continue through breakout sessions and panels aimed at building stronger engagement between citizens and government.