By Rafiyat Sadiq
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has advised politicians from Northern Nigeria to wait until 2031 before contesting for the presidency.
Akume gave the advice on Tuesday during a two-day interactive session on government-citizen engagement held in Kaduna.
The event, titled “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizens’ Engagement for National Unity,” was organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.
In his remarks, the SGF praised the foundation for creating a space where citizens and government officials could engage in dialogue to improve governance and promote unity.
Akume stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had spent two years and two months in office, and that his administration had recorded what he called “remarkable achievements.”
“President Tinubu promised impartial governance, and he has kept to that promise,” Akume said. “We should support a leader who is delivering results so he can do more.”
He criticised the spread of misinformation in some media reports and argued that the Tinubu administration had made progress in national security, food production, and infrastructure.
“We have seen government interventions that have helped reduce food prices and improve infrastructure across the country,” he added.
‘Wait Until 2031’
Akume urged northern politicians not to disturb the current administration’s progress.
“I appeal to our northern politicians to wait until 2031 before seeking the presidency,” he said. “Do not support groups or actions that will reverse the development already achieved.”
He also defended the decision to remove fuel subsidy, noting that it has freed up funds for states to undertake significant projects and improve services to the people.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan,” Akume added. “It is a real commitment to bringing progress to all parts of the country.”
North Not Marginalised
The SGF dismissed claims that the North has been left out of Tinubu’s administration. He said the President had appointed many northerners to key positions and had initiated major infrastructure projects in the region.
“For example, the Sokoto to Bagary Super Highway is longer than the Lagos-Calabar road,” Akume said. “A new road project covering Akwanga, Jos, Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba will also be awarded soon.”
He called on all patriotic leaders from the North to support Tinubu until 2031, saying there is no need for presidential campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.
“President Tinubu has started well and is working for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
The event brought together several political appointees from the North, including Malam Ali M. Ali, Managing Director of NAN.
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.
