2027: Guber race heats up  in Adamawa,  as Salihu promises to build on Fintiri’s Legacy

By Yagana Ali Yola .

 The political atmosphere in Adamawa State gathered fresh momentum on Tuesday as gubernatorial hopeful Mustapha Salihu formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election, unveiling a vision anchored on continuity, expansion, and inclusive development.

Addressing party supporters and stakeholders in Yola, Salihu—an influential figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC)—pledged to sustain and strengthen the development strides recorded under the current administration of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

With a tone that blended optimism and resolve, the former North-East Zonal Vice Chairman of the APC emphasized that his ambition is driven by a desire to consolidate existing gains while introducing fresh ideas to accelerate growth across the state.

“I am committed to building on the solid foundation already laid,” Salihu stated. “Our focus will be to not only sustain ongoing projects but to expand them in ways that deliver tangible improvements in the lives of our people—whether in infrastructure, education, healthcare, or economic empowerment.”

He stressed that his administration, if elected, would be guided by principles of inclusiveness and fairness, ensuring that no community is left behind. According to him, governance must reflect the voices and needs of all citizens, particularly the underserved.

Salihu also highlighted transparency and accountability as cornerstones of his proposed leadership, promising a government that is open, responsive, and results-driven.

In outlining his broader strategy, the aspirant underscored the importance of collaboration with federal authorities. 

He expressed readiness to work closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to attract investments, enhance security, and unlock new opportunities for Adamawa’s development.

“I understand the weight of the trust placed in leadership,” he added. “If given the mandate, I will honour that trust with integrity, dedication, and measurable progress.”

The declaration drew support from key political figures, including the Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Bathiya Wesley, who described Salihu as a credible and capable contender within the party.

Wesley commended Salihu’s track record and urged party members and residents of the state to rally behind his ambition, noting that continuity in governance is essential to preserving the gains already made.

“Governor Fintiri has set a commendable pace in critical sectors,” Wesley said. “What is needed now is leadership that will sustain and deepen that progress for the benefit of all.”

As part of his declaration activities, Salihu also visited the APC state secretariat, where he formally presented himself to party officials and submitted his nomination form, signaling the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched political contest.

With the 2027 election still on the horizon, Salihu’s entry into the race adds a new dynamic to Adamawa’s political landscape—one that could shape the future direction of governance in the state.