President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accused opposition parties of dragging the All Progressives Congress (APC) into premature political activities ahead of the 2027 elections but insisted he remains focused on delivering good governance.
Tinubu made the remarks on Wednesday while receiving North-East governors led by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Zulum pledged the governors’ support for Tinubu’s policies and presented a list of regional demands, including improved security and critical infrastructure development.
On security, Tinubu praised the role of the Civilian Joint Task Force in supporting security agencies and hinted at fresh consultations with the National Assembly on the creation of state police.
“Politics apart, we can work with the National Assembly leadership to see how to eliminate political bottlenecks around state police, which would be indigenous to communities and provide an additional layer of security,” he said.
Addressing political distractions, the President added:
“In the political environment, we are being drawn into early activities by rival political parties. But whichever way it comes, I am not distracted. I remain focused on what is ahead. Politics will happen at the right time, but for now, our commitment is to governance and building the Nigeria of our dreams.”
Zulum, in his remarks, thanked the President for sustaining the fight against insurgency and highlighted the peculiar challenges of the North-East, including difficult terrains, unmanned forests, and environmental setbacks that worsen insecurity and hinder development.
The governors urged continued military operations in insurgency-prone areas such as Lake Chad, Mandara Hills, and Sambisa, alongside funding for the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). They also requested the completion of key road projects, resumption of oil exploration in Kolmani and Lake Chad basins, and expansion of railway and road networks to better connect the region with the rest of Nigeria.
