Written by SpringsNewsNG Media Limited, March 31, 2025

Niger Delta chieftain Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Yoruba Aborigines Progressive Initiative (YAPI), have declared their support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid.

In separate statements on Sunday, both parties cited Tinubu’s achievements in security, the economy, infrastructure, and sectoral development as the basis for their endorsement. The Yoruba group particularly highlighted key policy decisions such as the removal of fuel subsidies, revitalization of national refineries, and the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy as significant milestones in Nigeria’s progress.

Tompolo, who serves as Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, pledged to rally other progressive leaders and stakeholders in the Niger Delta to promote Tinubu’s continuity beyond 2027. He commended the President’s commitment to tackling crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which, according to him, has significantly boosted Nigeria’s crude oil production from 600,000 barrels per day to approximately 1.8 million barrels per day.

Describing Tinubu as “a leader who thrives under unusual circumstances,” Tompolo lauded his bold economic and governance decisions, stating that they have set Nigeria on the path of sustainable development.

Similarly, YAPI’s Chairman, Olushola John, emphasized the administration’s initiatives, including student loan facilities, the removal of Customs duties on imported pharmaceuticals to enhance affordability, and measures to curb rising food costs.

“We will join other progressive-minded leaders and the good people of the Niger Delta to preach your gospel of continuity beyond 2027. Nothing can change our support. It’s your turn for another four years, and we are backing you solidly,” Ekpemupolo declared.

Tompolo also acknowledged key accomplishments of Tinubu’s administration, such as doubling aggregate revenue to over N9.1 trillion, reducing the percentage of revenue spent on debt servicing from 97% to 68%, clearing $5 billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations, and revitalizing the oil and gas sector with the Compressed Natural Gas initiative.

Other achievements he cited include the establishment of the Student Loan Fund with N45.6 billion disbursed to students, unlocking a $700 billion mining potential through solid minerals sector reforms, and initiating monumental infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway. He also lauded Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the Nigeria Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State.

“Tinubu’s bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and a more unified forex management system, have reshaped Nigeria’s economic landscape,” he added.

Reaffirming YAPI’s endorsement, the group’s spokesperson, Olatubosun Awonuga, stressed that they are not alone in their stance.

“It is not only YAPI that has declared support for the president’s second-term bid; several other social-interest groups have also done the same. Our support is rooted in a desire to contribute to national progress. It is not out of place for us to express our backing for the president.”

With these endorsements, the momentum for Tinubu’s re-election campaign appears to be gaining traction among key regional and socio-political groups.