Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Thursday led a high-powered delegation of prominent stakeholders from Nigeria’s North-East geopolitical zone on a courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to express appreciation for his decision to retain Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.
The visit, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, brought together a broad spectrum of political leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, lawmakers, ministers, and respected community leaders from across the six states of the North-East. The delegation described the President’s decision as one that reflects confidence in Vice President Shettima’s leadership and recognises the strategic contributions of the region to national development.
Leading the delegation, Governor Zulum conveyed the appreciation of the people of the North-East, noting that the decision has been warmly received across the region. He said the visit was intended to reaffirm the zone’s commitment to national unity, stability, and the continued pursuit of policies aimed at promoting peace, economic growth, and inclusive governance.
The delegation included elder statesman Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, serving and former governors from the North-East, members of the National Assembly, ministers, traditional rulers, and other distinguished political, religious, and community leaders.
The gathering underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the Federal Government and the North-East in addressing key developmental priorities, including infrastructure, security, education, agriculture, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Participants at the meeting commended the administration’s ongoing efforts toward national development and reiterated their readiness to support initiatives that foster sustainable peace, improve livelihoods, and strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.
The visit also highlighted the North-East’s resolve to remain actively engaged in national affairs through constructive dialogue and partnership with the Federal Government. Stakeholders stressed the need for sustained investment in critical sectors to consolidate development gains recorded in the region over recent years.
Political observers note that the delegation’s visit demonstrates the significance of consultations and stakeholder engagement within Nigeria’s democratic process. Such engagements, they say, provide opportunities for leaders to reaffirm shared objectives, strengthen cooperation, and promote inclusive governance.
The North-East has remained an important political and economic region in Nigeria, contributing significantly to agriculture, commerce, and national security. Leaders from the zone have consistently advocated policies aimed at accelerating reconstruction, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the welfare of citizens affected by years of insecurity.
The visit concluded with expressions of goodwill and renewed commitment to working collectively for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and sustainable development.
This report is based on information released by the Borno State Government regarding the courtesy visit by North-East stakeholders to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
