Support and opposition are emerging simultaneously in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, as political leaders and parties weigh in on President Bola Tinubu’s performance and re-election prospects.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, praised President Tinubu for his efforts to advance national development since assuming office in 2023. Speaking on Thursday during a solidarity rally in Lafia, Yilwatda highlighted the administration’s focus on Northern Nigeria through infrastructure, capacity building, and regional projects.

He said, “Mr. President has shown that Nigeria can be one. He has shown that Nigeria can be inclusive. He has shown that the government can be resolute… For all of us in the North, this simply means that we will become importers and exporters because the entire northern part of Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Chad will rely on us for their imports. Supporting Mr. President is a must for the North because of what he has laid, what he is doing, and what he will do for the entire region.”

The rally saw APC leaders and thousands of decampees from other political parties pledge support for Tinubu and Governor Abdullahi Sule, citing infrastructural projects across Nasarawa State, including roads, schools, hospitals, flyovers, and the airport. The Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, also commended Tinubu and Sule for their leadership and urged political ambassadors to promote the President’s achievements at the grassroots.

However, dissenting voices have emerged. Idris Kalgo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), expressed skepticism about Tinubu’s popularity in the North. Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Kalgo stated, “Tinubu has practically lost support from the North. The North doesn’t like him anymore. The only people from the North who are still with him are his ministers and appointees. Nigerians are tired of him… On 20th February 2027, Nigerians will decide, and it’s going to be a date whereby we are going to throw out the APC government.”

Kalgo’s comments underline a growing political divide in the region, even as the APC consolidates its support network and mobilises grassroots efforts for the upcoming polls. The contrasting narratives reflect a contested political landscape in Northern Nigeria, where Tinubu’s developmental agenda and party loyalty are being closely scrutinised ahead of the 2027 elections.