Tinubu Reunites With ‘Class of 1999’ Governors at State House

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received members of the Class of 1999 — the cohort of governors who took office at Nigeria’s return to civilian rule — at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Friday, July 25, 2025. The meeting, led by former Delta State Governor James Ibori, brought together several prominent figures who helped shape the dawn of the Fourth Republic.

The visit served as both a reunion and a show of solidarity for President Tinubu, who served as Lagos State governor from 1999 to 2007. The attending former governors congratulated Tinubu on his leadership and discussed a future-focused agenda, emphasizing national unity and progress. They commended the president for appointing one of their ranks, George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and affirmed their support for ongoing national development efforts.

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During the closed-door session, discussions reportedly centered on strengthening security, tackling Nigeria’s energy challenges, and working across party lines to advance national interest. Former Edo State Governor Lucky Igbinedion, chairman of the group, highlighted that it was time to put politics aside and focus on the “project Nigeria.”

President Tinubu urged both current and former governors to rededicate themselves to improving the quality of life for Nigerians, acknowledging citizens’ concerns and reaffirming his commitment to implementing policies that will deliver real change. The meeting underscored the enduring influence of the Class of 1999 in Nigeria’s political landscape, more than two decades after they first assumed office.