Abuja – Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement in the Northwest, Abdullahi Yakasai, told Arise Television on Wednesday that the president retains robust support in the northern region despite recent speculation to the contrary.
Yakasai dismissed claims that Tinubu’s political base in the Northwest has eroded, describing the narratives as “politically motivated” attempts by opposition parties ahead of upcoming elections. “To suggest that the President’s support in the Northwest has vanished is simply a negative political statement,” he said. “The President’s actions should make the people of the North proud.”
Addressing concerns over deteriorating living conditions, Yakasai highlighted steps taken by the Tinubu administration to improve governance and development at the grassroots level. He emphasized that many responsibilities for citizens’ welfare lie with state and local governments, and that the federal government has been working in partnership with these tiers to deliver services.
The remarks come as political analysts monitor shifting loyalties in the North, a region historically influential in Nigerian elections. While opposition figures have warned of growing discontent, the president’s camp argues that development projects and policy initiatives – particularly in infrastructure, agriculture and social services – continue to garner favorable reception.
Yakasai’s comments suggest that the administration will maintain its outreach strategy in the Northwest, reinforcing alliances with local leaders and communities. Observers note that the narrative of sustained northern support may shape party calculations as the country approaches its next general election cycle.
The debate over regional backing underscores the broader contest for political legitimacy in Nigeria, where the balance of power between federal and sub‑national authorities remains pivotal. Future statements from both government and opposition officials will likely focus on concrete outcomes at the state and local levels, providing clearer indicators of public sentiment across the North.
