By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
A coalition of more than 30 youth and women-led political support groups under the aegis of the Coalition of Progressive Movement Groups (CPM) has thrown its weight behind former Nasarawa State Governor and Senator, Tanko Al-Makura, for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The endorsement was announced on Friday during a strategic gathering held in Gombe, the Gombe State capital, where coalition representatives, grassroots mobilizers, and party stakeholders from all six geopolitical zones converged to push for what they termed “credible and unifying leadership” within the ruling party.
The National Coordinator of the coalition, Hon. Umar Kumo, popularly known as Danrimin Akko, led the call, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other key party leaders to support Senator Al-Makura’s candidacy based on his record of loyalty, political competence, and broad-based appeal.
“This endorsement goes beyond party politics, it is a call for credible and unifying leadership,” Kumo said.
“Senator Al-Makura is a tested and trusted figure whose loyalty to the APC and its ideals is unwavering. We believe he is the right leader to consolidate our gains, strengthen party structures, and steer the APC to continued national relevance.”
Senator Al-Makura, who made history as the only governor elected on the platform of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), one of the legacy parties that merged to form the APC was hailed by the coalition for his significant contributions to the party’s formation and his inclusive approach to governance.
His tenure as Governor of Nasarawa State was marked by progressive reforms, grassroots empowerment, and strategic youth engagement, the group said. They also pointed to his time in the Senate as evidence of his legislative prowess and nationalistic vision.
The coalition appealed to APC stakeholders across the country, particularly youth and women, to unite behind what they described as “a well-deserved and timely choice” to lead the party to greater cohesion and electoral strength.
“Senator Al-Makura has paid his dues, stressing the APC must now show that loyalty, vision, and capacity are rewarded,” the coalition added.