Kebbi State Solidifies Support for Tinubu 2027: Governor Nasir Idris Praises APC Members After Landslide Presidential Primary Victory

In a strong display of political unity, Kebbi State Governor Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has publicly commended members of the All Progressives Congress in the state for their massive endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. The commendation came shortly after the APC direct presidential primary held on May 24, 2026, in Birnin Kebbi, where President Tinubu recorded an overwhelming victory across all 21 local government areas and 225 wards of the state.

This development underscores the growing consolidation of support for the ruling party in northern Nigeria as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle. Governor Idris described the exercise as peaceful, well attended, and a clear signal of confidence in President Tinubu's leadership and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Details of the Presidential Primary in Kebbi State

The APC conducted direct presidential primaries across Nigeria on May 23 and 24, 2026. In Kebbi State, party members turned out in large numbers to vote at ward levels. President Tinubu secured thousands of votes in various polling units, defeating his sole challenger, Stanley Osifo, by a wide margin nationally and locally.

In Governor Idris's own polling unit in Nassarawa II Ward, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area, Tinubu polled 5,652 votes. Other wards reported similarly strong numbers, with some local government areas delivering over 25,000 votes for the President. The Kebbi APC Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, declared the results a reflection of massive grassroots support.

Governor Idris addressed party faithful after the exercise, stating: “We in Kebbi know only one President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President has done a lot for our people by complementing the efforts of the Kebbi State Government and ensuring that the state benefits immensely from his administration.”

He highlighted that Kebbi was among the first states to publicly endorse President Tinubu for a second term during a grand rally at Haliru Abdu Stadium in Birnin Kebbi. The successful primary further strengthened the party's structure ahead of 2027.

Governor Idris's Broader Political Context and Achievements

Governor Nasir Idris, a former teacher and labour leader, assumed office in 2023. His administration has focused on agriculture, education, health, and infrastructure in a state known for its rice production and strategic location along the Sokoto River. Supporters credit him with improving road networks, supporting farmers with inputs, and maintaining relative stability despite regional security challenges.

On May 21, 2026, the Kebbi APC unanimously endorsed Governor Idris as the sole governorship candidate for 2027. The affirmation occurred at Haliru Abdu Stadium with delegates from all 225 wards present. This consensus approach reflects strong internal party cohesion.

Following his endorsement, Governor Idris embarked on consultations with traditional rulers across the state, seeking their blessings for both his re-election and President Tinubu's second term. He visited emirs to formally notify them of the APC resolutions and request prayers for victory.

Political observers note that traditional institutions play a vital role in Kebbi politics. Endorsements from emirs and district heads often translate into grassroots mobilization, especially in rural areas where farming communities form the backbone of the electorate.

National Implications for Tinubu's 2027 Ambitions

President Tinubu secured the APC presidential nomination with over 10.9 million votes nationwide in the direct primaries, against Stanley Osifo's 16,503 votes. He received his certificate of return on May 25, 2026.

Kebbi's strong performance adds to a pattern of solid northern support. States like Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa also delivered impressive numbers for Tinubu. This northern bloc remains crucial for any presidential candidate aiming for victory in Nigeria's complex ethnic and regional politics.

Former Kebbi Governor and current Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, has been instrumental in mobilizing support. He commended party members for their unity and assured victory for the APC in 2027.

Challenges and Criticisms Amid the Endorsements

While the primaries showcased party unity in Kebbi, broader national conversations highlight ongoing security and economic concerns. In recent days, bandits abducted 13 residents in Tangaram Village, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Critics on social media link such incidents to questions about governance effectiveness.

One X user commented: “Bandits have abducted 13 residents... But Tinubu's only concern is how to win a 2nd term when his 1st term is nothing but agony, pain etc.”

Another post stated: “In one day Bandits abduct 13 in Kebbi State... Tinubu the GCFR has failed catastrophically in matters of security.”

Supporters counter that the administration inherited complex security issues and point to ongoing military operations and infrastructure investments as signs of progress. Governor Idris's team emphasizes collaboration with federal authorities to tackle banditry in the northwest.

Economic reforms under President Tinubu, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, remain divisive. Proponents argue they are necessary for long-term stability, while opponents highlight immediate hardships affecting ordinary Nigerians, including farmers in agrarian states like Kebbi.

The Role of Technology and Youth in 2027 Politics

As Nigeria moves toward 2027, technology plays an increasing role in political mobilization. The APC used digital tools for voter registration, result collation, and communication during the primaries. Governor Idris's media team leveraged social platforms to amplify the positive outcomes in Kebbi.

Young voters, who form a significant portion of the electorate, are watching closely. Discussions on X focus on issues like job creation, education reform, and agricultural modernization. Kebbi's rice revolution and potential in solar energy and irrigation could become campaign talking points if the APC positions itself as a technology-forward party.

One analyst noted on social media: “Forget social media noise, the North really love President Tinubu... This is Kebbi State proudly reaffirming loyalty.”

However, opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party are already positioning themselves to exploit perceived weaknesses in security and the economy. They argue that endorsements like those in Kebbi represent elite consensus rather than genuine grassroots enthusiasm.

What People Are Saying: Diverse Voices from Kebbi and Beyond

Public reactions reflect the polarized nature of Nigerian politics. Supporters celebrate the unity. One party member posted: “Congratulations Sir, for the successful primary... May Almighty Allah allow you to witness this coming 2027 victory.”

Critics remain skeptical. A user from the region warned: “Ya Allah whoever vote for Tinubu from... Kebbi... Allah kasa Bello Turji ya sace uwar shi” — invoking security concerns around bandit leader Bello Turji.

Neutral observers focus on delivery. A political commentator stated: “The real test for Governor Idris and President Tinubu will be translating these endorsements into tangible improvements in security, farming outputs, and job creation for the people of Kebbi.”

Looking Ahead: Kebbi APC Strategy for 2027

Governor Idris assured party members of continued loyalty to President Tinubu and the APC. He praised their maturity, unity, and organizational strength, noting the smooth conduct of presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly primaries.

The state APC aims to maintain this momentum through continuous engagement with traditional rulers, youth groups, women associations, and farmers. Key campaign themes likely include agricultural transformation, improved healthcare, education access, and enhanced security partnerships with the federal government.

With Nigeria's population growing and youth unemployment high, states like Kebbi that invest in practical skills and technology adoption could see stronger political returns. Initiatives in digital literacy, irrigation technology, and value-chain agriculture may feature prominently.

Broader APC Consolidation Across Nigeria

Kebbi's events mirror similar endorsements in other states. Governors such as those in Lagos, Kano, and Katsina have secured automatic tickets or strong support. The APC national leadership under Abdullahi Ganduje appears focused on minimizing internal rancour through consensus where possible and direct primaries where competition exists.

This strategy aims to present a united front against opposition fragmentation. However, analysts warn that over-reliance on consensus could breed future internal dissent if aggrieved aspirants defect.

A Northern Stronghold Prepares for Battle

Governor Nasir Idris's appreciation to Kebbi APC members marks another chapter in President Tinubu's re-election bid. The landslide primary victory in the state demonstrates organizational strength and strategic mobilization. Yet the path to 2027 remains challenging amid security threats, economic pressures, and an active opposition.

For Kebbi State, the coming months will test whether these political endorsements translate into improved livelihoods for residents. As the Renewed Hope Agenda enters its fourth year, delivery on promises in agriculture, security, and infrastructure will determine if the massive support witnessed in Birnin Kebbi endures at the polls.

kebbidailynews.com will continue monitoring developments as parties finalize strategies and voters assess performance. In Nigerian politics, early endorsements like Kebbi's set the tone, but execution ultimately decides outcomes.