KADUNA — The Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting he must be allowed to complete a full eight-year tenure, in line with Nigeria’s informal zoning arrangement.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Assembly’s Speaker, Mohammed Salihu Danlami, declared that “there is no vacancy in Aso Rock until May 29, 2031,” urging Northern political figures to steer clear of the 2027 presidential race.
The group emphasized that respecting the rotational presidency is critical to maintaining national unity and political balance. It noted that the North previously benefitted from a similar arrangement during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose two-term tenure went largely unchallenged by Southern contenders.
“This is not a matter for debate,” the statement read. “In the supreme interest of national cohesion and continuity of governance, Northern political actors must refrain from contesting the presidency in 2027.”
AYA further warned that any attempt by Northern aspirants to join the race would be strongly opposed by youths across the region, describing such a move as a violation of the country’s unwritten zoning agreement.
Beyond politics, the Assembly also expressed confidence in the Tinubu administration’s economic and security reforms. It pointed to gains from the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate unification, and improvements in external reserves, noting signs of fiscal recovery, including a reduced debt service-to-revenue ratio.
On security, the group commended ongoing military operations and enhanced intelligence coordination, citing progress in tackling banditry and securing the release of kidnapped victims, particularly in Northern Nigeria. It also praised the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for his leadership in advancing security reforms.
However, the Assembly urged government officials to improve communication with citizens at the grassroots, stressing that visible engagement is key to building public trust.
“It is not enough to work in silence. Government officials must engage the people and highlight the gains being recorded to strengthen public confidence,” the statement added.
Describing the 2027 general election as a defining moment, the group reaffirmed its strong backing for President Tinubu’s re-election bid, emphasizing that national unity must take precedence over individual or regional ambitions.
“We stand firmly with the President and assure him of the unshakeable support of Northern youths. The call for continuity is clear, and it will prevail,” the statement concluded.
