A high-level delegation of political, traditional, and institutional leaders from Enugu State has formally pledged support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, signalling a significant political alignment in the South-East.
The declaration was made on Tuesday during a visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the delegation, led by Governor Peter Mbah, met with the President to express what they described as “unalloyed support” on behalf of the people of Enugu State.
According to the delegation, which claimed to represent the collective voice of over seven million residents, the endorsement reflects growing confidence in the administration’s economic policies and developmental agenda. The visit also underscored a strengthening relationship between Enugu State and the federal government, despite past political differences.
The delegation comprised an array of prominent figures across sectors, including the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; former Senate President Ken Nnamani; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; and former governors of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Also present was former governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo, alongside members of the National Assembly, former ministers, religious and traditional leaders, academics, and other stakeholders.
In his remarks, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for the show of support, describing it as both encouraging and indicative of the impact of his administration’s reform agenda. He noted that reports of infrastructural development and economic progress from various states serve as validation of ongoing federal policies.
The President commended state governors for effectively deploying increased financial allocations to improve key sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare. According to him, these outcomes demonstrate that the administration’s economic reforms, though challenging, are beginning to yield tangible results.
He also pointed to what he described as a growing political realignment across the country, with more leaders and stakeholders identifying with the governing All Progressives Congress. Tinubu suggested that such shifts were largely driven by the perceived benefits of federal reforms and collaborative governance.
Addressing Governor Mbah directly, the President praised his leadership style and the pace of development in Enugu State, highlighting improvements in security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
“You have demonstrated transformative leadership, and what is happening in Enugu today reflects a clear commitment to development,” Tinubu said. “The progress you are outlining is not theoretical; it is evidence that reform is working and that difficult decisions are producing meaningful outcomes.”
He assured the delegation of continued federal support, particularly in critical areas such as railway development, power sector reforms, and infrastructure expansion. The President specifically referenced the proposed railway connection between Port Harcourt and Enugu as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic integration and growth.
Tinubu further noted that longstanding challenges associated with funding large-scale projects had been mitigated through improved fiscal strategies, including increased disbursements to states. This, he said, has enabled subnational governments to plan and execute development projects more effectively.
He also encouraged greater collaboration across all levels of government, stressing that national development is a collective responsibility rather than the effort of a single administration.
“It is not a one-person show,” he said. “It requires coordination at the federal, state, and local government levels. We must continue to work together to build a nation that all Nigerians can be proud of.”
The President also used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to democratic governance, urging leaders to remain focused despite criticism.
“Democracy will endure despite intimidation or dissent,” he said. “We must stay committed to building a nation that offers hope and opportunity for future generations.”
In his response, Governor Mbah described the visit as both symbolic and strategic, noting that it reflected a shared commitment to national progress and economic transformation. He expressed gratitude to the President for what he described as sustained federal support and engagement with Enugu State.
“This visit represents our collective appreciation and our belief in your vision for Nigeria,” Mbah said. “The delegation here speaks for the over seven million sons and daughters of Enugu State who are grateful for your investments and partnership.”
The governor emphasised that the relationship between the state and the federal government has fostered trust and confidence, which, he said, underpins their decision to support Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“We state clearly and without ambiguity that this partnership has earned our trust,” he added. “On that basis, we will stand firmly with you in the 2027 elections.”
Mbah also highlighted several projects inaugurated during the President’s visit to Enugu in January 2025, noting that they have contributed significantly to the state’s socio-economic development. He described Tinubu as a “true friend” of Enugu, particularly for engaging the state despite its previous political alignment.
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani echoed similar sentiments, praising both the President and the governor for what he described as a productive partnership that has benefited the state and the wider South-East region.
“We have come to express our gratitude,” Nnamani said. “The progress we are witnessing in Enugu would not have been possible without the support of the federal government.”
He affirmed that the people of Enugu State are aligned in their support for Tinubu and expressed confidence that the President would benefit politically from the goodwill generated by his administration’s interventions.
The visit marks a notable moment in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually intensify. Analysts suggest that such endorsements could signal broader shifts in regional alliances, especially in areas where opposition parties have traditionally held sway.
With political actors increasingly positioning themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle, the Enugu delegation’s declaration underscores the importance of strategic partnerships and the growing influence of federal-state collaboration in shaping political outcomes.
