On July 29, 2025, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, urged politicians from Nigeria's Northern Region to postpone their presidential ambitions until 2031. He made this call during a two-day Interactive Season on Government-Citizens’ Engagement held in Kaduna, organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.
Akume emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which has been in office for over two years, has achieved significant milestones such as strengthening security, revitalizing agriculture, improving food security, and contributing to infrastructure development nationwide. He described the administration’s "Renewed Hope Agenda" as a genuine commitment to restoring progress across all regions, not just a slogan.
Akume cautioned northern politicians against joining groups that might hinder these developments, urging patience and strategic support for Tinubu's continued leadership. He highlighted that the removal of fuel subsidies has increased government funds for sub-national projects. Stressing inclusiveness, he pointed out that the North has benefited from appointments and infrastructural projects under Tinubu’s government.
He stated that 2027 should not be the focus for northern presidential ambitions, affirming that the region’s turn to contest the presidency should wait until 2031 due to President Tinubu's performance and contributions to national unity and development. Akume reassured that the president’s efforts have positively impacted all Nigerians without bias.
This call aims to foster national unity and sustain the current administration’s momentum for Nigeria’s progress.