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Ex-Legislators Endorse President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid
Unity and Progress: The 2026 National Summit of Former Legislators
In a significant political development, former members of Nigeria’s National Assembly have publicly declared their backing for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027. This announcement was made during the 2026 National Summit of Former Legislators held in Abuja on Saturday, January 24.
Themed “National Unity and Nation Building: Beyond 2031,” the event was orchestrated by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), with the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, serving as the summit’s convener. The gathering focused on fostering national cohesion and sustainable development strategies for Nigeria’s future.
Deputy Senate President Advocates Continuity for Reform Implementation
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, a leading voice at the summit, emphasized the importance of re-electing President Tinubu to ensure the uninterrupted execution of his extensive reform agenda aimed at transforming Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. Jibrin highlighted that Tinubu’s first term has laid a solid foundation for progress, which should be allowed to mature through a second term.
“The principle of rotational leadership has brought balance and fairness since the dawn of the Fourth Republic,” Jibrin remarked. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently serving his initial term, and as many have observed, there is no need to disrupt the system that is working effectively. We must allow the rotational system to continue delivering results.”
Embedding Rotational Leadership in Nigeria’s Constitution
In a statement released by his media representative, Ismail Mudashir, Jibrin also committed to proposing constitutional amendments to formally enshrine the rotational leadership principle within Nigeria’s legal framework. This move aims to institutionalize political fairness and stability across the nation’s diverse regions.
He further underscored the critical need for national unity, mentorship of emerging leaders, and the preservation of governance continuity to sustain Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Recognizing the Vital Role of Former Legislators in Democracy
Jibrin praised the former lawmakers for their ongoing contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. He acknowledged their unique position as custodians of legislative experience and institutional knowledge, which remain invaluable assets for the country’s governance.
“Former legislators hold a distinguished and respected status in our national fabric. Having borne the responsibility of lawmaking, their wisdom and statesmanship continue to be essential for nurturing and advancing our democracy,” he stated.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Nigeria’s Political Landscape
The summit’s outcomes reflect a broader commitment among Nigeria’s political stakeholders to uphold democratic principles, promote inclusivity, and support leadership continuity. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the endorsement of President Tinubu by seasoned lawmakers signals a strategic alignment aimed at consolidating reforms and fostering national development.
Recent polls indicate growing public interest in governance stability, with 68% of Nigerians expressing support for leadership continuity to achieve long-term economic and social goals. This sentiment aligns with the summit’s call for unity and sustained progress beyond 2031.
