President Bola Tinubu has called on coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA) to intensify grassroots mobilisation efforts across Nigeria, as his administration faces mounting criticism from opposition figures over economic hardship and reform policies.
The president dismissed criticisms and pressure from opposition, insisting he would stay the course on his administration’s reforms as debate over zoning and the 2027 presidential race intensified.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja during a meeting with members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Tinubu said opposition voices would not derail his plans to reform the economy and reposition the country.
“They want to scare me off? That is a lie… if I have to go through it again, I will,” the President said.
He maintained that his administration remains focused on reducing poverty, expanding opportunities and strengthening democratic institutions, while urging adherence to the rule of law.
“We cannot submit to the disobedience of lawful court orders… We must embrace the judiciary, whether it favours us or not,” he said.
Tinubu also called for unity and national cohesion, stressing that progress depends on a shared vision. He acknowledged current economic challenges but said his government was addressing structural issues.
“If something is wrong, we fix it and move on,” he added, noting that reforms would require patience. “The voyage is not easy… I will not run away from this fight.”
RELATED NEWS:
- Tinubu Charges NRS on Trust, Accountability, Fair Revenue Administration
- Insecurity Rising Ahead of 2027 Elections to Distract Tinubu, Akpabio Alleges
“I will not give up. What we promised Nigerians, we will deliver,” he said.
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors was inaugurated on November 25, 2025, as a grassroots mobilisation platform designed to promote President Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 elections. The network, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma as Director-General, has reportedly established structures extending to ward and polling unit levels nationwide
Earlier, Governor Uzodinma said the movement had gained fresh momentum following the President’s endorsement. He urged members to intensify outreach across communities and explain the long-term benefits of government reforms.
“The success of his policies is our success. We must communicate these reforms in a unified and disciplined manner to every Nigerian,” he said.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, also backed the President, pointing to ongoing infrastructure, energy and industrial projects as evidence of progress. He pledged continued party support for policies aimed at economic transformation.
Governor Uba Sani, Deputy Director-General of the movement, warned that gaps in communication were being exploited by the opposition, urging supporters to better project government achievements. He cited improved security and the return of farmers to previously unsafe areas in Kaduna as signs of progress.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Secretary of the movement, called for closer coordination between state governments and the ambassadors, describing governors as key drivers of the President’s agenda.
Presidency Defends Zoning, Warns Against Atiku’s 2027 Bid
The Presidency also pushed back against indications that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may contest the 2027 election, insisting that the North-South power rotation principle favours the South.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Atiku’s reported ambition as self-serving and at odds with a political arrangement he said has helped stabilise Nigeria’s democracy since 1999.
Responding to comments attributed to Atiku in a recent television interview, Onanuga argued that another bid would undermine the zoning convention.
He recalled that Atiku’s 2023 presidential run, as candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), followed a northern presidency and, according to him, contributed to divisions within the party and its eventual defeat.
Onanuga also rejected Atiku’s position that zoning should not apply, describing the argument as flawed. He said the perceived imbalance in power rotation resulted from exceptional circumstances, including the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
He maintained that after former President Muhammadu Buhari completed two terms, it is fair for Tinubu to do the same.
“Since Buhari completed his eight years, Tinubu too must complete his own,” he said, urging Atiku to reconsider any 2027 ambition.
Wike Dismisses Atiku’s Chances, Backs APC
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, also dismissed Atiku’s prospects, saying the 2027 presidency is “not available” to him.
Speaking during an inspection of infrastructure projects in Abuja, Wike described the former vice president as a “serial opposition figure” and said Nigerians would judge performance based on visible development.
He expressed confidence that the APC would retain power, citing ongoing projects in the FCT as evidence of progress.
Wike also downplayed the strength of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying the party lacks the nationwide structure to compete effectively. He questioned the ability of key figures within the party to deliver electoral victories in their states.
The minister denied allegations that the FCT Administration attempted to frustrate the ADC’s convention, insisting that due process governs access to public facilities.
Atiku’s Aide Accuses Presidency of Intimidation
In a swift response, Phrank Shaibu, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku, accused the Presidency of trying to stifle opposition voices.
In a post on X, Shaibu said no presidential aide has the authority to determine constitutional provisions or restrict political participation.
He argued that zoning remains a political convention rather than a constitutional requirement and should not be used to limit contestation.
“This attempt to pressure Atiku out of the race reflects fear, not principle,” he said.
Shaibu also rejected claims that Tinubu must complete two terms, insisting that political power ultimately rests with voters.
“Presidents are elected, not crowned. Nigerians will decide,” he said.
He maintained that Atiku retains the right to contest in 2027, adding that the outcome would be determined at the ballot box.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.