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Mr. John Okolo a public affairs Ana has said Kogi State and the North Central geopolitical zone will give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu overwhelming support in the 2027 elections, pointing to recent federal appointments, improvements in local security and ongoing development projects as reasons for gratitude and renewed political confidence.
Speaking in Lokoja, Okolo hailed the appointment of Lieutenant‑General Waidi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff as a landmark decision that recognizes the contribution of Kogi indigenes to national service. “The appointment of Lt.‑Gen. Waidi Shaibu means a lot to the North Central and to Kogi people,” he said. “This is an opportunity we will not take for granted. The time for rewarding Mr. President is here. The Igala will give a unanimous decision and will not allow vote splits.”
Okolo also praised Mr. President for ensuring that key positions are held by indigenous sons of Kogi, adding that recent federal nominations and postings — including the placement of a senior public official from the zone and other notable appointments — have deepened the region’s sense of inclusion. “When the presidency carries the North Central along with appointments, it shows respect for our people and our place in the federation,” he said.
On power rotation and national balance, Okolo argued that statesmanship requires sensitivity to regional expectations. He invoked the practice of zoning political offices between the north and south, saying it promotes stability and mutual trust: “There is a longstanding consensus on power rotation. When that balance is respected, the whole country benefits. These appointments are evidence that the centre is mindful of regional equity.”
Okolo credited the new Army chief with tangible improvements in local security and operational effectiveness across parts of the North Central. “Since Lt.‑Gen. Waidi took charge, we have seen an uptick in coordinated operations, faster responses to incidents and better intelligence sharing with communities,” he said.
“Troop morale is higher, and civilians are beginning to feel safer.” Local traditional leaders and community representatives, he added, have reported a noticeable reduction in the frequency of attacks in some areas and praised the army’s renewed engagement with civil authorities.
Highlighting federal projects in Kogi, Okolo pointed to work on military barracks in Anyigba that he said is “almost completed,” and a number of rural initiatives nearing completion. “These developments were things we never dreamed of achieving so quickly. They are adding real value to human existence in the region,” he said.
Okolo linked these gains to the region’s prospects at the polls. “The North Central has in the past been seen largely as a useful ally for other regions,” he said. “Today we are being carried along. For Kogi East in particular, a second term for President Tinubu would secure the progress we are beginning to see.”
As the 2027 cycle approaches, Okolo urged unity across the zone and pledged that Kogi’s voters would support the president in recognition of what he described as inclusive appointments and improving security conditions under the current military leadership.
