The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has urged the North to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, saying the region should wait until 2031 before pursuing its own presidential ambition.

Akume warned that any Northerner seeking the presidency in 2027 would be working against the region’s collective interests.

The former Benue State governor made the call on Saturday while addressing Benue indigenes residing in Kaduna ahead of the All Progressives Congress presidential campaign flag-off in the state capital.

He urged Northerners to remain united and avoid political ambitions that could create divisions within the region ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the North must prioritise its collective interests over individual political aspirations.

“President Bola Tinubu should be allowed to complete his political project before the North considers its own presidential ambition in 2031,” Akume said.

The SGF argued that the region needed to consider its long-term political interests and the implications of the 2027 presidential election for its future.

Akume further called for peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups, noting that national development depended on unity.

He urged Northerners to carefully assess political developments and avoid being influenced by individuals whose ambitions might conflict with the broader interests of the region.

The meeting brought together Benue indigenes living in Kaduna and other political stakeholders to discuss community concerns, political representation and engagement with national leaders.

The APC presidential campaign flag-off in Kaduna is expected to attract party leaders, supporters and political stakeholders from across the country.