Next generation my focus, not re-election — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that his attention is set on securing a brighter future for the next generation of Nigerians, rather than focusing on the 2027 elections.

The declaration came during the 2024 South-West Assembly of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held in Victoria Island, Lagos, and hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who serves as the party’s zonal coordinator.

Several prominent APC figures, including former national chairman Chief Bisi Akande, former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, and governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), expressed support for Tinubu and the party’s success in the 2027 elections.

The event, which brought together party leaders, senators, members of the House of Representatives, and local government officials from the Southwest, featured a keynote address by former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, who praised Tinubu as a “listening leader” committed to the country’s progress.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to national development.

Gbajabiamila, while conveying the President’s message, noted his commitment to making tough decisions that would ultimately benefit the country.

“Mr. President has asked me to tell you that he is not thinking of the next election but the next generation,” Gbajabiamila said.

“He has asked me to convey his message, that he knows he has taken a very tough decision. He sees the light at the end of the tunnel. The time will come when we will all thank him for the decision.

“Mr. President said I should let you know that he is not thinking of the next election but the next generation. For every moment in a country, a particular leader is produced for that time. This is the time to produce a leader that is courageous.”

He stressed that Tinubu is firmly committed to the well-being of all Nigerians, particularly the masses, adding that despite the challenges posed by tough reforms, Tinubu is motivated by a strong conviction to guide Nigeria through this transformative period.

He stressed that Tinubu feels the pain of the people’s struggles, but remains steadfast in his belief in the tough decisions he has made, driven by his conviction to lead the country through challenging times. Gbajabiamila also noted that, while Tinubu holds the office of President, his political roots are firmly in the Southwest, making the assembly’s discussions especially significant.

“The challenges facing our country are vast and complex. But for those who know him, Tinubu has always been a leader with a deep love for the people. He is pained by their struggles, but he is determined to push forward with his vision for Nigeria’s future,” he added.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reinforced the importance of unity and cooperation within the Southwest, stating that the region’s collective efforts would be essential to harnessing its abundant resources and moving the country forward. He also stressed that the gathering was a way to reignite hope and uphold the values of “omoluabi” for the progress of both the region and the nation.

Sanwo-Olu called on all leaders and members to continue their support for Tinubu beyond the 2027 election and focus on the future.

Senate Majority Leader, Bamidele Opeyemi, highlighted the strategic importance of the South-West APC Caucus in the 10th Assembly, noting that 15 out of the 18 Senators from the region are from the APC, giving it substantial influence in national legislative matters. He underscored the Caucus’s success in securing key leadership positions in the Senate and House of Representatives, which has allowed them to effectively represent the region’s interests.

Opeyemi also noted the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill, describing it as a necessary step for regional equity. He credited the South-West Caucus for its stabilising role in the Senate, particularly in supporting Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Jubrin Barau, during recent controversies.

Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, in his keynote address, called for the replication of the South-West Caucus model at the state and local government levels, encouraging a united front within the APC to fulfil Tinubu’s “renewed hope agenda.” Fayemi expressed confidence that the party would remain strong and focused on delivering on its promises under Tinubu’s leadership.

“We cannot continue to rest on our oars as a party. I am convinced that APC will remain strong to accomplish the unfinished business of the renewed hope agenda of Mr President,” he said.

The event was graced by prominent figures such as former APC National Chairman Bisi Akande, former Ogun Governors Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun, Lagos GAC leader Tajudeen Olusi, and the governors of Ekiti, Ondo, and Ogun States: Biodun Oyebanji, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Dapo Abiodun.