In a significant display of political solidarity and foresight, NdokwaForward, a prominent political support group rooted in the Ndokwa region of Delta State, has issued a resounding commendation to the Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The group's praise centers on the APC's unanimous endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the party's exclusive candidates for the forthcoming 2027 general elections. This move, according to NdokwaForward, not only underscores the APC's dedication to fostering continuity in leadership but also highlights a mature approach to addressing Nigeria's evolving governance challenges.
The endorsement was formalized in a statement that has been circulating widely among political circles in Delta State and beyond. Jointly signed by key figures within NdokwaForward—Hon. Bar Sam Osasa, who serves as the group's Leader; Dr. George Ugbomah, the Coordinator; and Chief Isaac Onyesom, an esteemed Adviser—the document articulates a vision of stability that resonates deeply with the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians. "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Delta APC for this bold and forward-looking decision," the statement declares emphatically. "Their endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori reflects political maturity and a deep understanding of the leadership needs of our people at this crucial time."
This endorsement comes at a pivotal juncture in Nigeria's political landscape, where economic reforms, security concerns, and infrastructural developments dominate national discourse. President Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023 amid high expectations, has been navigating a complex array of issues, including subsidy removals and currency reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy. Similarly, Governor Oborevwori, elected in 2023 under the People's Democratic Party (PDP) banner, has focused on consolidating gains in Delta State, a resource-rich region known for its oil production and diverse ethnic composition. The APC's cross-party nod to Oborevwori is particularly noteworthy, as it transcends traditional party divides, signaling a pragmatic alliance geared toward national and state-level progress.
NdokwaForward's leaders elaborated on why this decision merits celebration. Hon. Osasa, a seasoned politician with deep ties to grassroots mobilization, emphasized in the statement that such endorsements are rare in Nigeria's often fractious political arena. They represent a "strong signal of the APC's commitment to continuity, stability, and effective governance in both Delta State and Nigeria." This perspective is shared by many observers who see the move as a bulwark against the uncertainties that often accompany election cycles. In Delta State, where ethnic and regional interests frequently intersect with national politics, this unity could pave the way for more cohesive policy implementation.
A key highlight of the statement is the group's glowing assessment of the working relationship between Governor Oborevwori and his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme. Describing their synergy as exemplary, NdokwaForward noted that this partnership has already "yielded significant dividends for the state." Under Oborevwori's administration, initiatives in infrastructure, education, and healthcare have gained momentum, with Onyeme's contributions playing a pivotal role. As a former banker and administrator, Sir Onyeme brings a wealth of experience in financial management and public service, which the group believes will be "invaluable" in sustaining the administration's momentum.
"Sir Monday Onyeme’s wealth of experience as Deputy Governor will remain invaluable to Governor Oborevwori’s administration," the statement asserts. "His dedication and service to the people of Delta State are clear indicators of his capacity to continue contributing meaningfully to the state’s development." This praise is not mere rhetoric; it reflects tangible outcomes. For instance, joint efforts in flood mitigation and agricultural support programs have directly benefited communities in the Ndokwa axis, an area historically underserved despite its strategic importance in the Niger Delta. NdokwaForward expressed unwavering confidence that this collaborative model would "continue to deliver positive results beyond 2027," potentially setting a benchmark for deputy-governor dynamics across Nigeria.
Delving deeper into the regional context, NdokwaForward's commendation is intrinsically linked to its advocacy for the Ndokwa people, who comprise the Ukwuani, Ndokwa East, and Ndokwa West local government areas. This ethnic group, primarily from the Igbo-speaking subgroups in Delta North, has long championed equitable resource allocation and political representation. The group's leaders reiterated their "commitment to inclusive leadership and development across all parts of Delta State, particularly the Ndokwa region." They pledged ongoing collaboration with political stakeholders to ensure that the voices and aspirations of Ndokwa residents are not sidelined in the broader scheme of state and national affairs.
Inclusive leadership, as articulated by NdokwaForward, encompasses more than just electoral endorsements; it involves bridging divides between urban and rural areas, fostering inter-ethnic harmony, and prioritizing sustainable development projects. In the Ndokwa region, challenges such as environmental degradation from oil exploration, inadequate road networks, and youth unemployment persist. By aligning with the APC's endorsement, the group aims to leverage this political capital to push for targeted interventions. "We remain committed to working together towards a brighter future for the people of Ndokwa, Delta State, and Nigeria at large," the leaders concluded, extending congratulations to both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of emerging political realignments as the 2027 elections loom. Nigeria's democracy, now in its third decade of uninterrupted civilian rule, is witnessing a shift toward consensus-building rather than adversarial contests. Stakeholders across party lines—PDP, APC, and others—are increasingly positioning themselves in support of continuity and experience in governance. For President Tinubu, this endorsement bolsters his administration's narrative of reform and renewal, especially as he grapples with inflation control and foreign investment drives. For Governor Oborevwori, it provides a cross-partisan shield, allowing him to focus on deliverables like the ongoing Delta State Development Agenda, which includes massive road constructions and empowerment schemes.
Analysts suggest that NdokwaForward's statement could ripple beyond Delta State. In the Niger Delta, where militancy and resource control debates have historically fueled tensions, such endorsements promote stability. The group's call for inclusivity echoes broader national calls for zoning arrangements and power rotation, ensuring that no region feels marginalized. Moreover, with the APC's national leadership under figures like Abdullahi Ganduje pushing for unity, this local action aligns with a larger strategy to consolidate gains ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested election.
Looking ahead, NdokwaForward's role as a bridge-builder will be crucial. The group has a track record of mobilizing support for developmental causes, from education scholarships to health outreaches in Ndokwa communities. By hailing this endorsement, they are not only celebrating political maturity but also urging all actors to prioritize people-centered policies. As the statement wraps up on an optimistic note, it congratulates the endorsed leaders and invites wider participation in shaping Nigeria's future.
In essence, this episode exemplifies how local support groups like NdokwaForward can influence national conversations. Their advocacy for synergy between Tinubu's federal agenda and Oborevwori's state-level initiatives could inspire similar movements elsewhere. As 2027 approaches, the emphasis on stability over disruption may well define the electoral narrative, ensuring that governance remains focused on tangible progress rather than partisan bickering. With over two years to go, such early endorsements set the tone for a more unified political front, one that NdokwaForward is proud to champion.
