STAKES HIGH AS APC GROUPS PUSH EARLY MOBILISATION, BACK MAIKALANGU FOR RE-ELECTION

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress have called for early, data-driven mobilisation, wider public enlightenment, and the grooming of a new political generation as Nigeria approaches the 2026 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory and the 2027 general elections. The call was made during a strategic engagement meeting organised by the Progressive Next Generation Initiative, a data-driven analytics platform established to produce and support emerging leaders.

The event featured PNGI Convener Hon. Jeffery Omoh Ozemegwa, AMAC Chairman Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, the Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, and former APC presidential aspirant Dr. Ibrahim Bello Dauda.

Ozemegwa stated that PNGI was founded on the understanding that a major generational shift will reshape Nigeria’s leadership after 2027. “Over 15% of current political actors will phase out, making it necessary to nurture a younger, data-driven political class,” he said. He affirmed PNGI’s support for Chairman Maikalangu, citing his achievements, character, and leadership qualities. Ozemegwa also noted that many ward chairmen and councillors lack a proper understanding of government policies, emphasizing that political orientation is essential. He revealed PNGI plans to deploy its structures across the FCT, with Ibrahim Ombugadu linking grassroots engagement and capacity building.

TSG DG, Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, commended PNGI for the meeting, describing such engagements as crucial for appraising achievements and strengthening campaign messaging. He said Maikalangu’s performance makes him a strong APC asset, stressing that the party welcomes only individuals who add value. Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms in the FCT, including a full civil service structure and infrastructure expansion, Yakasai urged FCT residents and APC structures to deliver a landslide victory for Tinubu in 2027 to end debates over FCT votes.

AMAC Chairman Maikalangu thanked PNGI for the honour and revealed that mobilisation for 2026 and 2027 has already begun. “AMAC is too large for last-minute campaigns. Early engagement across churches and communities is already underway,” he said. He urged national APC leaders to take the FCT elections seriously and support immediate grassroots mobilisation, predicting APC victories in both elections.

Former APC presidential aspirant Dr. Ibrahim Bello Dauda lauded Maikalangu’s performance, stating that value sells itself. He addressed misunderstandings of Tinubu’s reforms, explaining that the new tax regime exempts businesses with turnovers below ₦50 million, covering over 70% of Nigerians. He added that almost ₦7 billion has been released to community health centres nationwide to provide free treatment for pregnant women, children, the elderly, and patients with diabetes or hypertension. Dauda called for harmonised enlightenment efforts between PNGI, TSG, and FCT party structures to ensure citizens understand government policies.

The meeting concluded with a pledge to support Maikalangu’s re-election as AMAC Chairman, citing his visible achievements. Stakeholders also called on the APC national leadership to strengthen early mobilisation, adopt data-driven messaging, and position a new generation of leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.