In Nigeria’s South-East region on Tuesday, former state governors declared their support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections and launched a new forum to promote development and guide current leaders in the zone.
The decision was reached during a meeting where the Forum of South-East Former Governors was formally introduced as a body to advise serving governors and contribute to discussions on regional and national matters. The gathering took place on April 7, 2026, with members agreeing to work together despite differences in political parties.
The group explained that the forum was created to bring together past leaders from the region to support ongoing governance and offer guidance based on their experience. It is open to all former governors from the South-East, regardless of political affiliation.
At the end of the meeting, a communiqué presented by David Umahi stated that the forum would also engage directly with current governors to strengthen cooperation and improve development efforts across the region.
The former governors pointed to ongoing projects and appointments by the Federal Government as reasons for their support. They noted that the administration’s actions in infrastructure and governance have contributed to progress within the South-East and across the country.
They also acknowledged the role of state governors in improving security, infrastructure, and empowerment programmes in their respective states. According to them, collaboration between federal and state governments has helped drive these efforts.
The group further stated that governors in the region are united in backing Tinubu’s second-term ambition, adding that they would continue to support policies and programmes aimed at development.
Several former governors were present at the meeting, while others were absent due to personal reasons. Members, however, expressed hope that more participants would join future meetings as the forum continues its activities.
The body plans to hold further engagements with stakeholders and inform citizens about government efforts, while working to strengthen unity and progress in the South-East ahead of the next election cycle.