The Nupe community in Ilorin Emirate has declared its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second-term ambition and Senator Saliu Mustapha's gubernatorial aspiration for Kwara Central District.

The endorsement was made under the platform of the Nupe Progressives of Ilorin Emirate, following what the group described as "extensive consultations" and in recognition of both leaders' demonstrated performance and engagement with the community.

The event, held in Ilorin, the state capital, was attended by traditional title holders, Islamic clerics, youth leaders, women mobilisers, and other prominent Nupe figures across the five local government areas.

Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq and Senator Mustapha both hail from Kwara Central. The group refrained from addressing the issue of political zoning.

Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, the Convener and Maiyaki 'N' Nupe of Ilorin Emirate stated that the community had never experienced such recognition and inclusion in governance as it has under Senator Mustapha, while also commending President Tinubu's efforts to stabilise the nation.

"In our more than 100 years within the Ilorin Emirate, no political leader has carried the Nupe people along like Senator Mustapha," he stated. "At the national level, we believe President Tinubu has the courage and capacity to continue leading Nigeria on the path of progress. Both deserve our unshakable support in 2027."

Youth mobiliser Comrade Abdulrauf Saheed (Na'aAllah) recalled that Mustapha's bond with the Nupe community strengthened during the 2023 elections when he made specific promises which he has since fulfilled.

He said: "Our experience with Senator Mustapha is unique. He kept his word, and that matters," Saheed said. "If one good turn deserves another, we will stand with him and with President Tinubu, regardless of political affiliation."

The meeting also featured prayers for the success of both leaders in the 2027 polls, as speakers lauded Senator Mustapha's empowerment initiatives and President Tinubu's reforms.

Mustapha's aide, Abdulkareem Alabi, described the endorsement as a "profound vote of confidence" and urged the community to sustain unity and support for the AbdulRazaq administration.

Senator Mustapha, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, is serving his first term in the Senate.