Galadima says Tinubu backed by 34 of 36 Nigerian governors

A prominent opposition figure in Nigeria has claimed that President Bola Tinubu already holds significant support among state governors more than a year before the 2027 general elections. Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), stated that Tinubu currently enjoys the backing of "34 and a half" of the nation's 36 governors. Galadima made the remarks on Friday, August 7, 2026, during the inauguration of his party's National Reconciliation Committee in Abuja.

Galadima identified Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as the only governor who has visibly distanced himself from both the ruling party and the opposition coalition. He described Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as the "half," saying he remains undecided. Galadima elaborated on Governor Mohammed's position, recounting a late-night meeting that nearly led to his defection to the NDC. According to Galadima, the two met until 3 a.m., and Mohammed was supposed to defect the following day but called in the morning to rescind his decision. Galadima said Mohammed was advised not to join a party that already has a strong presidential candidate.

"He is on the fence. He may work with us, he may work with...