Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Northern youths to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration and back the continuation of its economic reform programme ahead of the 2027 general elections. Akpabio made the appeal on Saturday in Abuja when he received a delegation from the Northern Ethnic Groups Assembly.
The Senate President said some of the policies introduced by the Tinubu administration, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system, were difficult for Nigerians at the beginning but were necessary to address long-standing economic problems.
According to Akpabio, the reforms are now moving into a stage where their benefits are becoming more visible. He said the measures were designed to remove structural problems in the economy and create conditions for stronger growth.
He argued that ending the fuel subsidy and working to improve the foreign exchange market were needed to reduce pressure on government finances. While admitting that the policies had increased the difficulties faced by many Nigerians, he said they were intended to free up public funds for areas such as healthcare, education and infrastructure.
Akpabio also pointed to what he described as early signs of progress from the reforms. These, according to him, include stronger government revenue, improved confidence among investors and greater interest from international partners.
He urged young people in the North to take a more active role in governance and national development. He said youths should not see themselves only as future leaders but should also participate in shaping the country’s affairs now.
The Senate President further said the 10th National Assembly was working on measures aimed at improving transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law. He called on young Nigerians to seek reliable information about government policies and take part in constructive discussions about the country’s future.
Akpabio’s comments come at a time when political activities are increasing ahead of the 2027 elections. His position places the continuation of Tinubu’s economic programme among the arguments being presented in support of another term for the President.
He also warned that ending the current reform programme before it becomes fully established could affect whatever gains have been made so far. He therefore advocated policy stability and continued implementation of the government’s economic plans.
The spokesperson for the Northern Ethnic Groups Assembly, Ibrahim Dan-Musa, praised Akpabio for engaging with the group and for what he described as efforts to improve understanding between northern and southern parts of the country.
Dan-Musa said the organisation believed national unity should take priority over regional and sectional interests. He also said the group was prepared to support efforts aimed at explaining the Federal Government’s economic policies to Nigerians.
The coalition plans to carry out grassroots mobilisation and public education on the government’s fiscal reforms. It said such activities would focus on helping people, particularly those in rural communities, understand the reasons behind the policies and their possible long-term effects.
The group also identified continued engagement with Northern youth organisations as part of its plans ahead of the 2027 elections. It intends to maintain consultations with youth leaders while encouraging greater awareness of federal economic policies.
The assembly said it would also promote national cohesion and call for open communication between the Federal Government and Northern youth groups. According to the organisation, regular engagement would help address misinformation and give citizens a clearer understanding of government decisions.
With political parties and interest groups already positioning themselves for the 2027 contest, Akpabio’s renewed support for Tinubu indicates that economic reforms and policy continuity are likely to remain central issues in the campaign for the President’s re-election.