Tinubu Tries in Re-defining Politics That Gives Young People a Chance — Dr Salihu B. Girei

Tinubu Tries in Re-defining Politics That Gives Young People a Chance — Dr Salihu B. Girei

By Austin Ajayi

A prominent educationist and key figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his deliberate efforts to redefine Nigerian politics by creating avenues for youth inclusion and leadership.

Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, the current Executive Director of Research and Development/Center of Excellence at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), made the assertion during a Grand Civic Reception held recently in Numan, Adamawa State.

Speaking at the event honouring Chief Mrs. Bema Olvadi Madayi, the newly appointed Federal Commissioner of the Federal Character Commission, and her husband, Hon. Zachary Madayi, a Renewed Hope Ambassador, Dr. Girei tied their achievements to the broader successes of the APC and loyalty to the party’s national leadership.

He expressed strong confidence in President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027, stating, “We are going to make a repeat. His Excellency, the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is going to return as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Dr. Girei, a former Adamawa State Commissioner and Chairman of the Adamawa State Universal Basic Education Board (ADSUBEB), emphasized that the President’s style of governance, which empowers younger Nigerians and new faces, is reshaping the political landscape.

A gubernatorial hopeful on the APC platform, Dr. Girei was unequivocal about the party’s chances in the state. “I also want to assure you that whoever emerges as the governorship candidate of APC in our state is going to win overwhelmingly,” he declared.

He revealed his preparedness for leadership, noting that he had previously declined a ministerial nomination because he felt unprepared at the time. “For years now, I have been developing myself for leadership… I am a party man. If the people want me to be the next governor, I am ready for the challenge. Our state has developed a lot and anyone who is not prepared should not be given our ticket,” he stated.

Dr. Girei, who served in the engine room of the former Governor Murtala Nyako’s administration, mentioned that he has already designed a “covenant” or development blueprint to further advance Adamawa State.

He projected a comprehensive APC victory in the 2027 polls, saying, “All of us are going to support APC with all our might, whoever emerges. I also want to assure you that from 2027, we are going to take over our three senatorial districts and our House of Representatives.”

The event also served as a platform for Dr. Girei to commend the state APC executives for their efforts in uniting the party.

His rising profile is reportedly gaining significant traction, with recent reports highlighting widespread support from youth groups, over 1,000 coordinators across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas, and stakeholders who point to his track record in education reform, integrity, and inclusive leadership.

As Adamawa’s political landscape intensifies ahead of the 2027 elections, Dr. Girei’s high-profile endorsements and appearances are cementing his image as a unifier with formidable connections to both state and national APC leadership.