The Office of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has formally received a donation of ₦100,000,000 (One million naira only) from youths of Kogi State towards the procurement of the Presidential Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms for Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.
The donation was presented at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja and received by the National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who described the gesture as unprecedented and emblematic of the growing confidence Nigerian youths have in the leadership and performance of President Tinubu.
Professor Yilwatda characterised the contribution as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that the youths made the donation without seeking political appointments or personal benefits, but out of a genuine commitment to continuity and national development.
The Chairman emphasised that President Tinubu, in collaboration with the Kogi State Government, has reinforced security architecture through decisive military interventions and the provision of operational logistics to combat criminal activities across communities.
He further highlighted the administration’s deliberate policy of youth inclusion, citing the unprecedented appointment of young Nigerians into key military, party, and public sector leadership positions, an approach that has redefined youths not as “leaders of tomorrow,” but as “leaders of today.”
Professor Yilwatda also commended the developmental strides of Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, particularly in road infrastructure, cultural revitalisation, youth empowerment, and leadership development initiatives such as the RISE programme.
The APC National Chairman noted that this was neither a pledge nor a promise, but a completed financial contribution.
Describing the action as unique in Nigeria’s political history, Professor Yilwatda announced that, with the donation, the Presidential Nomination Form for President Tinubu has effectively been secured, and no further fundraising for that purpose will be necessary.
“This is the first time youths are not requesting to see the President or asking for government patronage, but are instead purchasing a nomination form for him. You are torchbearers and pillars of democratic participation, setting an example for youths nationwide,” he stated.
Addressing inquiries regarding the cost of nomination forms, the Chairman reiterated the APC’s commitment to inclusiveness, noting that the party has reduced the cost of its nomination forms by nearly 50 percent compared to previous election cycles, to encourage wider participation, particularly among youths and women.
He stressed that financial constraints should not impede credible leadership aspirations within the party.
The APC leadership commended the Kogi youths for their patriotism, loyalty, and political consciousness, describing the donation as a resounding vote of confidence in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and a clear demonstration of grassroots support ahead of the 2027 elections.
In his remarks, Governor Ododo expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his leadership and support for youth inclusion, asserting that no previous administration has created as many opportunities for young Nigerians in governance.
Speaking on behalf of the Kogi youths the State Youth Leader, Mr. Aridaojo Anyebe, assured the party that contingency arrangements have been made to provide additional funds should there be any upward review in the cost of the nomination forms.
According to the Kogi youths, their decision was informed by measurable improvements in economic performance, encouraging national indicators, enhanced security within Kogi State, and inclusive governance under the current administration.