Former governors from Nigeria’s South-East region have thrown their weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing ongoing infrastructure development and increased federal support in the zone.
The endorsement was announced on Tuesday following the inauguration of the South-East Forum of Former Governors, a newly formed body aimed at supporting and advising current governors on key regional and national issues.
In a communiqué read by the Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, David Umahi, the forum described itself as a non-partisan platform open to all former governors from the region, regardless of political affiliation.
Umahi said the initiative was designed to foster unity and strengthen collaboration between past and present leaders in addressing developmental challenges in the South-East.
The former governors commended President Tinubu for what they described as an “infrastructure revolution” in the region, pointing to ongoing federal projects and the appointment of South-East indigenes into key positions in his administration.
They also praised serving governors in the region for progress recorded in infrastructure, security, and empowerment programmes, noting that federal support had played a significant role in those achievements.
“We commend Mr. President for the support extended to governors across the country. This has greatly contributed to the achievements recorded in their respective offices,” the communiqué stated.
In a major political signal ahead of 2027, the forum declared that governors in the South-East are united in their support for Tinubu’s second-term bid, describing the move as “strategic and forward-looking.”
The group said it would continue to work closely with current governors and engage in consultations aimed at promoting development and informing citizens about government initiatives.
As part of its next steps, the forum announced plans to pay a courtesy visit to serving governors in the region to outline its objectives and explore areas of cooperation.
Among those present at the inaugural meeting were former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Chris Ngige of Anambra State, Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, David Umahi of Ebonyi State, and Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State.
While some members were absent due to health and prior engagements, the forum expressed optimism that future meetings would attract broader participation.
The endorsement by the former governors is expected to influence political alignments in the South-East as preparations gradually intensify for the 2027 elections.
