By Muhammad Sani Muazu
Support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a prominent position as former All Progressives Congress (APC) legislators in Bauchi State reaffirmed their loyalty to the party and described him as the sole presidential candidate of the APC.
The forum also announced plans to organise a major gathering aimed at expanding the association of former APC legislators in Bauchi State into a broader North-East regional platform, with the objective of strengthening unity and political coordination across the zone.
Former Ambassador to Swaziland, Ambassador Baba Madugu, called for collective action among stakeholders to promote development and ensure political success in future elections. He emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the region.
Speaking at the general meeting of the former members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly Forum currently in the APC, Ambassador Madugu said sustainable development in the North-East requires commitment, strategic planning, and inclusive participation of leaders at all levels.
He noted that addressing infrastructural deficits and improving economic opportunities remain critical to unlocking the region’s full potential.
The Chairman of the forum, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed Bulki, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to improving the welfare of citizens across the region, assuring that the forum would continue to contribute to meaningful development initiatives.
Also speaking, the APC Vice Chairman (Central Zone), Honourable Bilya Bura, commended the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, for his support in strengthening the forum and facilitating its expansion across the North-East.
Former Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Kawuwa Shehu Damina, stressed the need for experienced leadership and stronger institutions to address developmental challenges in the region, calling for greater involvement of both past and present lawmakers in policy formulation.
A former legislator from Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area, Malam Aminu Tukur, urged members of the forum to uphold integrity and remain committed to their values, noting that the group remains neutral in the selection of governorship candidates within the party pending collective agreement.
The Secretary of the forum, Honourable Saleh Nabayi, said the association is working towards becoming a unified body across the North-East, with ongoing efforts to bring together all former APC lawmakers to speak with one voice on political and developmental issues.
The forum, which comprises former members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly who served between 1976 and 2023, identified key developmental challenges in the region, including the need for the construction and dualisation of the Akwanga–Adamawa highway.
Participants noted that the project would enhance transportation, boost trade, and strengthen regional integration, while also calling for measures to improve economic stability as a foundation for sustainable development.