The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has made a bold statement regarding the 2027 presidential race, urging Northern politicians with presidential ambitions to set their sights on 2031 instead.
Akume, speaking on Politics on Sunday on Television Continental, hosted by Femi Akande, emphasised that the nation’s current focus should be on supporting President Bola Tinubu’s second term, particularly as he works to implement key reforms designed to restore Nigeria’s economy.
Akume addressed the recent surge in debate surrounding the controversial Tax Reform Bills, urging Nigerians to allow these crucial pieces of legislation to pass through the necessary legislative processes.
He firmly stated that these bills were crafted with Nigeria’s long-term welfare in mind.
According to Akume, these reforms are essential to revitalizing the nation’s economy, which has been battered by the inefficiencies and missteps of previous administrations.
He underscored that, despite criticism surrounding the economic measures taken by President Tinubu—such as the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates—the government’s strategy was aimed at rebuilding Nigeria’s economy for a more prosperous future.
“It’s easy to destroy, but difficult to build,” Akume noted, pointing out that the difficult yet necessary reforms being undertaken will eventually lead to positive change.
He assured Nigerians that, though the process is challenging, the results will soon become evident.
Turning to the issue of presidential succession, Akume urged Northern politicians to respect the current political balance and look toward 2031 for a shot at the presidency.
He made it clear that President Tinubu, as a Southerner, deserves the opportunity to serve a full second term, reinforcing the idea that regional equity should be prioritised in the lead-up to the next election cycle.
“If it is God’s will for someone like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to become president—whether at 90 or beyond—then so be it,” Akume remarked.
However, he emphasised that the Northern political elite should set their sights on 2031, allowing the current administration to complete its term.
Akume’s statements highlight the deepening divide between the North and South in Nigeria’s political landscape, but also reflect a call for patience and stability as the country moves forward with its ambitious reforms under President Tinubu’s leadership.
