Vice President Kashim Shettima led twelve APC governors to the party's national headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. They came to file President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's nomination and expression of interest forms for 2027.
The governors represented Plateau, Ogun, Niger, Kaduna, Ondo, Katsina, Borno, Cross River, Taraba, Yobe, Nasarawa, and Bayelsa states. National Assembly members and party officials also attended the event.
Speaking at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Shettima urged Nigerians to back the President's reelection bid. He said Tinubu had proven his capacity to rescue Nigeria from economic hardship.
"We come as Nigerians first, and as APC members second," Shettima told reporters. He described the nomination as "very priceless" as the President seeks another four-year term.
According to the Vice President, Tinubu has shown unwavering commitment despite difficult circumstances. "Through thick and thin, this President has proved his mettle," Shettima noted.
He pointed to the Renewed Hope Agenda as evidence of the administration's success. Socio-economic improvements have been substantial, he argued, justifying another term.
Shettima acknowledged that some decisions were tough but necessary for Nigeria's future. "The storms of the past years have not diminished him," he said of the President.
He described Tinubu as "a fine sailor" navigating turbulent economic waters with courage. The difficult reforms taken have stabilized the economy and restored confidence, Shettima added.
"He has steered this ship through turbulent waters with courage," the Vice President declared. Such leadership decisions were essential to prepare Nigeria for sustainable progress, he explained.
Shettima called on all Nigerians to support Tinubu's candidacy. "By the special grace of God," he said, the President will secure another mandate.
House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also praised the President's leadership during challenging times. He said Tinubu's bold reforms have positioned Nigeria for recovery and prosperity.
Abbas noted that the difficult period hasn't weakened the President's resolve. Instead, it has strengthened the case for his reelection, the Speaker added.
Courageous decisions and reform measures justify a second term, Abbas told the gathering. Better days await Nigeria with Tinubu continuing, he assured.
APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda defended the President's track record.
He said performances by Tinubu and APC governors warrant another term.
Yilwatda emphasized party achievements across various economic sectors. Such accomplishments, he argued, provide ample justification for the President's reelection bid in 2027.
