Tinubu, 1999 Class of Governors Meet Behind Closed Doors at State House

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday met behind closed doors with members of the 1999 Class of Governors at the State House in Abuja, in a symbolic reunion that highlighted their shared role in shaping Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. The private meeting brought together former governors elected during the country’s transition from military to civilian rule, many of whom remain active figures in national affairs.

Led by former Edo State Governor Lucky Igbinedion, the delegation was received by President Tinubu, who served as Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 under the Alliance for Democracy. The gathering was described by sources as warm and reflective, with discussions focusing on national unity, good governance, and how their collective experience could continue to support Nigeria’s democratic growth.

Among those present were Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume (Benue), Chief James Ibori (Delta), Obong Victor Attah (Akwa Ibom), Senator Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi), Mr. Donald Duke (Cross River), Mr. Boni Haruna (Adamawa), Otunba Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti), Adamu Mu’azu (Bauchi), Ibrahim Saminu Turaki (Jigawa), Jolly Nyame (Taraba), and Joshua Dariye (Plateau). Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, also attended the meeting.

The 1999 governors, often seen as foundational figures in Nigeria’s democratic transition, played key roles in establishing the framework for civilian governance after decades of military rule. Their reunion with President Tinubu, himself a central figure in that era, served as both a reflection on the nation’s democratic journey and a renewed call to contribute to its ongoing progress.