Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Friday, July 25, 2025, held a high-level meeting with former Nigerian governors who served during the historic 1999 transition to democratic rule. The gathering took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the country’s capital, and has been described as both symbolic and significant for Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The meeting was attended by a number of the former state executives who were elected into office at the dawn of the Fourth Republic in 1999, a critical moment in the nation’s political history after years of military rule. This reunion brought together key political figures who were instrumental in laying the foundation for civilian governance as Nigeria re-entered democratic rule over two decades ago.
President Tinubu, himself a member of the 1999 governors’ class, welcomed his former colleagues warmly and engaged them in discussions centered around issues of national development, stability, and the advancement of democratic ideals. The deliberations highlighted the importance of collaboration across political lines to address ongoing challenges such as economic reform, security, and institutional strengthening.
During the closed-door session, the president emphasized the need for inclusive leadership and national unity, inviting the elder statesmen to offer insights and strategic counsel that could aid his administration in steering the country toward lasting progress and sustainable governance.
The former governors, in turn, pledged their support for national development efforts and committed to using their experience, networks, and influence to assist in promoting stability and democratic consolidation across the country.
Among the distinguished attendees were Chief Lucky Igbinedion, former Governor of Edo State, and James Ibori, former Governor of Delta State. Others present included influential figures from across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones who were part of the landmark 1999 class of governors, many of whom have remained active in public service or political discourse since their exit from office.
The meeting was widely regarded as a gesture of solidarity and a reinforcement of shared values among former and current leaders. It also served as a reminder of the legacy and responsibility borne by those who participated in Nigeria’s democratic rebirth at the turn of the millennium.
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