Allow Tinubu Complete Eight Years, Arewa Youths Caution Northern Aspirants

Allow Tinubu Complete Eight Years, Arewa Youths Caution Northern Aspirants

The Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting he should complete a full eight-year tenure under Nigeria’s rotational presidency system.

In a statement issued in Kaduna, the group cautioned northern political figures against contesting the 2027 presidential election, stressing that the South must be allowed to complete its turn for the sake of national unity and fairness.

According to AYA Speaker, Mohammed Salihu Danlami, the position of the group is driven by the need to preserve national cohesion, political stability, and continuity in governance.

Respect Zoning, Preserve National Unity

The assembly emphasized that Nigeria’s zoning principle—which rotates power between the North and South—remains critical to maintaining balance in the country’s political structure.

It recalled that during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, southern politicians did not significantly challenge the North’s eight-year tenure, arguing that the same understanding should now apply to the South.

AYA warned that any attempt by northern aspirants to enter the 2027 race would be seen as a violation of fairness and equity, and could heighten regional tensions.

Economic Reforms and Policy Gains

Highlighting achievements of the current administration, the group pointed to key economic reforms which it said have improved Nigeria’s fiscal outlook.

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According to AYA, government policies have generated annual savings between ₦4 trillion and ₦7 trillion, while exchange rate harmonisation has boosted transparency and contributed to an increase in external reserves—from about $4 billion in 2023 to over $20 billion in 2025.

The group also noted a significant drop in Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio, from around 97% to below 50%, creating more room for developmental spending.

It added that these reforms have earned recognition from global institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Security and Infrastructure Improvements

On security, AYA credited intensified military operations and improved intelligence coordination for successes against insurgency and banditry, including the rescue of kidnapped victims and disruption of criminal networks.

The group also said farming activities are gradually returning in previously insecure areas, especially in northern Nigeria.

In terms of infrastructure, it highlighted ongoing investments in road and rail development, describing them as signs of the administration’s commitment to long-term growth.

Call for Continuity Ahead of 2027

AYA maintained that the reforms currently underway require time to fully materialize and warned that any interruption could reverse progress.

The group pledged its support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid and urged government officials to improve communication of achievements at the grassroots level.

It concluded that allowing the President to complete an eight-year tenure is essential for sustaining reforms and ensuring political balance in Nigeria.

Allow Tinubu Complete Eight Years, Arewa Youths Caution Northern Aspirants