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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a move that could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has issued a stern warning to northern political leaders eyeing the presidency. Ganduje emphasized that the party’s rotational principle must be respected, asserting that the southern region is entitled to lead for the next two terms, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential re-election in 2027.
Speaking during a meeting with the Tinubu Northern Youth Forum and the PBAT Media Centre at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, Ganduje reiterated the party’s commitment to zoning and unity. He stated that President Tinubu, who hails from the southern region, is poised to complete his current term and seek a second term in 2027, after which the presidency would revert to the north.
“When a leader from the northern part of this country was in office for eight years, we advocated that the next president in our party should come from the south. Luckily, with the cooperation of Nigerians, we achieved this. Our president is from the south and is going, inshallah, for a second term in 2027,” Ganduje declared.
The APC chairman’s remarks come amid growing speculation about the 2027 presidential race, with some northern politicians reportedly positioning themselves for a bid. Ganduje’s statement serves as a clear signal that the party leadership intends to uphold its zoning arrangement, which has been a key factor in maintaining balance and cohesion within the APC.
Youth groups mobilize for Tinubu’s 2027 campaign
Ganduje also commended the efforts of youth support groups, including the Tinubu Northern Youth Forum and the PBAT Media Centre, for their role in promoting the party’s agenda and mobilizing voters ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted their contributions to public enlightenment on the controversial Tax Reform Bill, which he said has gained widespread acceptance after initial misunderstandings.
“APC is ready to provide you with all the assistance you need. You have been instrumental in educating the public on the tax reform agenda, which was initially misunderstood but is now widely accepted. We appreciate your efforts and your plans to mobilize voters for the 2027 election,” Ganduje said.
The National Coordinator of the Tinubu Northern Youth Forum, Mal. Auwal Ibrahim, assured the party leadership of their commitment to delivering five million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 elections. “We are ready to mobilize the youth and ensure that the president’s agenda receives the support it deserves,” Ibrahim affirmed.
Similarly, Hon. Dada Olusegun, leader of the PBAT Media Centre, pledged to counter misinformation surrounding the Tinubu administration and ensure accurate narratives are presented to the public. “We are committed to giving adequate publicity to the 2027 campaign of the present administration,” Olusegun stated.
Ganduje’s vision for a stronger APC
In his address to the Tinubu Young Generation Forum, Ganduje outlined his vision for a more dynamic and institutionalized APC. He revealed plans to establish a Progressive Institute aimed at educating party members on the APC’s constitution, manifesto, and programs. The institute will also provide policy inputs to the government, ensuring that the party remains actively involved in governance beyond election cycles.
“We are not running a business-as-usual party. We want to be active throughout the year, not just during elections. The Progressive Institute will educate our members and assist the government in achieving its manifesto,” Ganduje explained.
He also emphasized the importance of youth engagement, praising the Tinubu Young Generation Forum for its consistency and innovative approach to mobilizing young voters. “You have created a niche for yourself and emerged as a national outfit. We will continue to support your activities,” Ganduje said.
Tinubu’s reforms and the road to 2027
Ganduje expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a reformer and visionary leader focused on addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. He acknowledged the initial difficulties of the administration’s reforms but noted that positive outcomes are beginning to emerge, particularly in the economic sector.
“Our president is doing very well. His reforms are necessary for the socio-economic development of this country. We are starting to see the results, and we believe the renewed hope agenda will be achieved,” Ganduje stated.
As the APC prepares for the 2027 elections, Ganduje’s remarks underscore the party’s determination to maintain internal discipline, uphold its zoning principle, and rally support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid. With youth groups already mobilizing and the party leadership focused on institutional strengthening, the APC appears poised to consolidate its position as Nigeria’s dominant political force in the coming years.
