In Nigeria, former assembly leaders promise Tinubu 11 million votes — Premium Times Nigeria
In Nigeria, the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of State Houses of Assembly (FOPSHAN) declared its support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 and promised to mobilize more than 11 million votes for him. As Premium Times Nigeria reports, the participants also decided to communicate the summit’s decision to all 36 states of the country and the Federal Capital Territory.
Support for a second term
The 2026 FOPSHAN national summit took place at the presidential residence in Abuja. Its theme was an assessment of the economic course of the Tinubu administration and the reforms introduced under its programme.
The forum acknowledged that the removal of fuel subsidies had caused temporary economic hardship. At the same time, its members described the move as important for sustainable development and long-term economic growth.
In a resolution read by FOPSHAN national secretary Matog Dogara, participants called for Tinubu to be given the opportunity to lead the country for a second term. The forum also supported the creation of state police, regional development commissions, and financial autonomy for local governments. Participants approved First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as FOPSHAN’s honorary patroness.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Assessments of the reforms
Former Senate President Pius Anyim, who chaired the event, defended the administration’s reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidies, the student loan programme, and the proposed creation of state police. According to him, reforms often do not enjoy support at the beginning of their implementation, and their results may become visible later.
Senator and former Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong acknowledged that the removal of subsidies had increased transport and living costs, intensifying pressure on households and businesses. He said Nigeria needs to move from macroeconomic stabilization to improving public welfare, focusing on infrastructure, agriculture, human capital development, security, social protection, and opportunities for young people.
Oluremi Tinubu thanked the participants for supporting her husband’s re-election. She urged former legislators to use their experience to strengthen democratic institutions, mentor younger parliamentarians, and preserve institutional memory.
