Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday met with Mai Mala Buni, Governor of Yobe State, and the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Geidam, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The meeting focused on security and development issues affecting the state, according to a statement issued by the governor’s Director-General of Press and Media Affairs, Mamman Mohammed.
Mohammed said discussions centred on strengthening collaboration between the Federal Government and Yobe State, particularly in areas such as infrastructure development and security coordination.
He added that the president commended the two leaders for their efforts in maintaining stability in the state and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for subnational initiatives aimed at improving living standards in Nigeria’s North-East region.
However, sources familiar with the meeting said political succession ahead of the 2027 governorship election also featured in the discussions.
Governor Buni is expected to complete his second term in office in 2027, paving the way for a new administration in the state.
Although there has been no official confirmation that succession planning was discussed, the presence of Geidam — a former governor of Yobe State — has fuelled speculation about ongoing consultations within the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Political observers say such meetings are common as political actors begin early alignments ahead of major election cycles.
Meanwhile, several aspirants are already being mentioned in political circles as potential contenders in the upcoming governorship race.
Among them are Ibrahim Bomai, Abubakar Aliyu, Musa Mustapha, former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, and the Secretary to the State Government, Baba Wali.
Another name attracting attention is Kashim Tumsah, who is reportedly gaining support from youth groups within the state.
As political activities begin to gather momentum, stakeholders are expected to intensify consultations and alliances ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
