SGF George Akume urges Northern elites to delay presidential ambitions until 2031.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to Nigeria’s Government, today urged politicians from the Northern region to "wait till 2031" before pursuing presidential ambitions. Speaking at a Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation citizens–government engagement conference in Kaduna, Akume framed the call as a unifying gesture to prevent intra‑regional rivalry.
He emphasized that the current administration aimed to distribute opportunities across all regions, cautioning that premature presidential contests from Northern politicians could fuel division and destabilise progress. The interactive session focused on assessing electoral promises and sustaining national unity through dialogue.
Some opposition figures welcomed the message as a stabilizing influence, while others criticized it as undemocratic, arguing that political ambition should not be deferred based on regional origin. Analysts note it reflects internal tensions within President Tinubu’s APC-supporting Northern caucus ahead of the 2027 elections.
Akume’s comments may influence political strategy and nominations, particularly as former governors and influential figures reassess their timelines. With power dynamics evolving, many in the region are watching whether this symbolic delay will reshape coalition-building ahead of future electoral cycles.
I'm Adedayo Obadina
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