Get Guardian on GoogleA political support group known as the Tinubu Northern Youth Forum has announced its decision to withdraw support for President Bola Tinubu and endorse former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The group also announced a change of identity, adopting a new name, Arewa Youth For Atiku (AYA), as part of its decision to align with Atiku and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The development was contained in a press statement dated November 13, 2026, and signed by Adamu Jikan Manu on behalf of the newly adopted group.
According to the statement, the formal endorsement of Atiku, declaration of support and official joining of the ADC takes place Saturday, November 14, at the ADC North-East Strategic Office in Azare, Bauchi State.
The ceremony which is led by the group’s convener, Hon. Auwal Ibrahim Sansani, called on its members, supporters, community and religious leaders, youths, women, students, market associations, professionals and other stakeholders across Northern Nigeria to attend the event.
It said the transition from Tinubu Northern Youth Forum to Arewa Youth For Atiku would provide a new platform for youth engagement, political awareness, community outreach and participation in the democratic process across Northern states.
Explaining its political direction, the group said Nigeria needed responsible leadership, national unity, effective governance and meaningful participation by citizens.
It urged Nigerians who shared its vision to join the movement in promoting peaceful and democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general elections. AYA adopted the slogan, “Join the Atiku Train,” urging supporters to vote for Atiku, with the declaration: “Vote Atiku. Save Nigeria.”
