Governors and key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Nigeria’s South-South region have formally declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
The endorsement came during an interactive session held over the weekend in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
The gathering, which brought together prominent political figures, party leaders, and top government functionaries, was marked by strong affirmations of President Tinubu’s performance, with participants highlighting his transformative leadership and commitment to national development.
The session served as a platform for assessing the current administration’s impact and mapping out strategies for sustained growth under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to a statement issued by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State, several speakers commended President Tinubu for his visionary policies and reform-driven governance, which they believe have placed Nigeria on the path to sustainable progress.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, who hosted the event, expressed his profound appreciation to his fellow South-South governors and party stakeholders for their presence and unity.
He described the unprecedented gathering as a testament to the growing cohesion within the party, saying, “This is the first time we are witnessing such unity among governors convening in one place to discuss the future of our country.”
Governor Okpebholo praised President Tinubu’s commitment to development, particularly in infrastructure and economic reform. He referred to the President as a “capacity working President” who has created enabling conditions for state governments to function effectively. “Things you think are difficult are made easy through his policies,” he remarked.
In reaffirming his loyalty, the governor boldly promised to deliver no less than 2.5 million votes for Tinubu in Edo State during the 2027 general election. He dismissed opposition skepticism, citing ongoing projects as proof of the administration’s backing and intent.
Notably, he mentioned the construction of roads across eight communities in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, including one leading to the hometown of former Governor Godwin Obaseki — a road neglected for nearly a decade. “If the President is not behind us, such development cannot happen. 2027 is settled in Edo State as a way to pay him back for his support,” Okpebholo declared.
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, speaking on behalf of APC governors in the South-South, also endorsed President Tinubu for another term.
He lauded Tinubu’s administration for initiating key reforms like the student loan programme and the recent policy to exempt low-income earners from taxation — moves he said demonstrated compassion and a clear direction for inclusive growth.
A vote of confidence was jointly passed on President Tinubu and Governor Okpebholo by attendees, who included: Senator Adams Oshiomhole (representing Edo North and a former governor), the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Abubakar Momoh, former Bayelsa Governor Timipre Sylva, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku, Secretary to the State Government Umar Ikhilor, APC National Woman Leader Mary Alile, Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe, and South-South APC chieftain Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
Speakers at the session praised Tinubu’s administration for fostering impactful changes in governance, infrastructure, and economic policy. Many noted that his leadership had rekindled hope and renewed confidence in the country’s direction.
The event concluded with a united call from South-South APC leaders for continued support of President Tinubu, affirming that the region stands firmly behind him as he seeks to consolidate on the gains of his first term.
“Anywhere he goes, we go,” Governor Okpebholo added, signaling unwavering support from the South-South bloc.