Northern Govs restates support for Tinubu

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum has restated Northern Nigeria’s unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing visible gains in infrastructure, security, and economic reforms since the administration took office.

Speaking during a two-day interactive session organized by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna, the governor described the meeting, themed “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Unity,” as a timely opportunity to review the Federal Government’s performance and promote accountability.

Governor Yahaya emphasized that President Tinubu made clear promises to Northern Nigeria during the 2023 campaign season, noting that the region delivered over 60% of the votes that secured his victory. He asserted that the region is now seeing the returns on that trust, with several projects underway, including the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Kano-Katsina-Maradi railway, the Kaduna Refinery rehabilitation, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline, and oil drilling at the Kolmani Oil Fields.

“These projects are proof that when citizens engage and leaders remain committed, democracy works. The renewed hope agenda is beginning to yield tangible results,” the governor said.

He also highlighted proposed and emerging developments such as the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, improved inter-state road networks, agricultural value-chain support, and healthcare reforms, adding that they show the government’s determination to uplift the North’s economic fortunes.

On security, Yahaya stated that over 300 terror and banditry commanders have been neutralised through coordinated military operations, indicating progress in securing the region. He also lauded the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, saying it will help modernize herding practices and reduce clashes between herders and farmers.

He commended the Federal Government’s educational interventions, especially in reducing the Almajiri and out-of-school children numbers through collaborations with state authorities and traditional institutions.

Governor Yahaya also acknowledged the tough economic environment caused by recent federal reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate liberalization, but defended the actions as difficult yet necessary for long-term stability.

“To sustain these gains, governors, traditional and religious leaders, business stakeholders, and civil society must build on federal efforts with local initiatives that drive real development in infrastructure, education, and welfare,” he urged.

He called for a fair evaluation of Tinubu’s administration as the 2027 general elections approach, declaring that “by the measure of performance and delivery, President Tinubu has earned our continued support.”

Drawing inspiration from the legacy of the late Northern Premier, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Yahaya emphasized the importance of strengthening the alliance between the North and the Southwest, describing it as essential to Nigeria’s unity and political stability.

He concluded by underlining the importance of dialogue and collaboration between leaders and citizens, saying: “Democracy thrives in the spaces we create for honest conversation. When citizens and government work together as true partners, there is no challenge we cannot overcome.”

The forum continues with sessions involving civil society groups, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and senior officials, all focused on building participatory governance across the region.