By Toyin Hakeem, Abuja
The Forum of APC Local Government Chairmen has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic and governance reforms, expressing confidence that the ruling party will secure more than 70 per cent of votes in the 2027 general elections.
Chairman of the Forum, Hon. Mustafa Jibril, made the declaration during a media briefing in Abuja, saying APC local government chairmen across the country have intensified grassroots mobilisation to promote the President’s policies and strengthen support for the party ahead of the polls.
Jibril dismissed reports of a rift between the forum and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), insisting both bodies enjoy a cordial relationship and are united in advancing grassroots governance. He noted that several members of the forum also hold leadership positions in ALGON, describing the partnership as collaborative rather than competitive.
Speaking on local government autonomy, the forum chairman said President Tinubu has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering councils through ongoing reforms. He added that many APC-controlled states are making steady progress toward full financial and administrative autonomy for local governments with the support of their governors.
Jibril also defended the Federal Government’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and exchange rate reforms, describing them as bold but necessary decisions to reposition the economy. He said increased allocations to states and local governments are already translating into tangible development, particularly in agriculture and infrastructure, citing Niger State’s distribution of tractors and farming equipment to local councils as an example.
Expressing optimism ahead of the 2027 elections, Jibril said the APC remains firmly rooted at the grassroots and is working to translate the achievements of the Tinubu administration into electoral support. He maintained that the party is not taking victory for granted but is confident of a landslide win, predicting that it would secure more than 70 per cent of the votes cast.