Sullivan Chime, former Governor of Enugu State, has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in the 2027 presidential election, urging Nigerians, especially stakeholders in the South-East, to support the incumbent’s bid for a second term. Chime made the endorsement on Monday in Enugu during an interaction with party supporters and political leaders.

Chime said his endorsement of Tinubu was informed by the president’s governance track record and efforts to address national challenges. He described Tinubu’s leadership as one that requires continuity to build on ongoing reforms in critical sectors such as security, economy and infrastructure.

Chime stressed that continuity would bolster national cohesion and accelerate development.

The former governor also appealed to political stakeholders in the South-East geopolitical zone to embrace strategic political engagement to strengthen the region’s influence in the national political discourse.

He said unity and collaboration, rather than political isolation, would better serve the interests of the zone and ensure Nigerians benefit from federal allocations and policies.

Chime encouraged party supporters to work towards consolidating gains made in previous elections, stressing the importance of political mobilisation, grassroots engagement, and voter education to secure broader support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

He reiterated that the APC should pursue inclusive strategies that resonate with Nigerians across political, ethnic and regional divides.

Political analysts say endorsements from prominent figures such as Chime could provide strategic advantages for Tinubu as the 2027 election approaches, particularly in geopolitical zones where the APC has historically struggled to secure significant votes.

Endorsements, observers note, can help bridge regional political gaps and foster broader coalitions across party lines.

Chime’s endorsement aligns with other recent expressions of support for Tinubu from political leaders and stakeholders within and outside the APC, reflecting early alignment efforts as Nigeria’s political landscape begins to shape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As the electoral cycle unfolds, political parties are intensifying mobilisation efforts nationwide, with leaders expected to articulate policy priorities, expand alliances, and engage electorates to solidify backing for their preferred candidates.

Further developments are expected as other political stakeholders in the South-East and beyond declare positions, shaping the strategic dynamics of Nigeria’s 2027 electoral contest.