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SGF Akume Urges Northern Politicians to Wait Until 2031 for Presidential Bid

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 29th, 2025.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, advised politicians from Nigeria’s Northern region to defer their presidential ambitions until 2031. The statement was made during a political stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, as discussions intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akume, a prominent northern leader and former governor of Benue State, emphasized the importance of maintaining Nigeria’s delicate regional balance in the presidency. He urged northern politicians to respect the informal power rotation agreement, which has seen President Bola Tinubu, a southerner, lead since 2023. “For the sake of equity and unity, our northern brothers should exercise patience and prepare for 2031,” Akume stated.

The SGF’s remarks come amid growing speculation about northern candidates eyeing the presidency in 2027, potentially challenging the unwritten zoning arrangement between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions. Akume warned that premature contestation could deepen regional tensions and undermine national cohesion.

Political analysts view Akume’s statement as an attempt to consolidate support for President Tinubu’s administration within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while discouraging early factionalism. However, the call has sparked mixed reactions. Some northern politicians argue that zoning should not supersede competence, while others see it as a pragmatic approach to fostering unity.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties have yet to comment, but sources indicate that the issue of zoning will be a key factor in their 2027 strategies. As Nigeria’s political landscape heats up, Akume’s admonition is expected to shape discussions within the APC and beyond.

The SGF reiterated his commitment to promoting national unity and urged all politicians to prioritize Nigeria’s stability over personal ambitions. Further developments are anticipated as parties prepare for their national conventions and the 2027 election cycle appro

aches.