Soludo Backs Tinubu’s Reforms After Aso Rock Meeting.
Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms following a private meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on 12 August 2025. Speaking to journalists after the closed-door discussion, Soludo, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), revealed that his support for Tinubu stems from a 22-year friendship and shared progressive ideals, sparking speculation about a potential political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
Soludo, a former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, praised Tinubu’s “bold steps” in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges and implementing structural reforms. “I have no apologies for supporting him. We’re taking the right steps, and we need to stay the course,” he stated, emphasising the need for political parties professing progressivism to unite in a coalition to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and drive development. He highlighted that this stance aligns with his long-held belief in collaboration among progressive parties, a message he has consistently promoted since Tinubu’s visit to Anambra, where billboards proclaimed “progressives working together.”
The governor’s appearance at Aso Rock, notably wearing a cap bearing Tinubu’s insignia, fuelled discussions about his political intentions. Addressing this, Soludo explained that the cap reflected a longstanding partnership with Tinubu and the broader progressive movement. “You don’t deny your friend. President Tinubu has been my friend for over two decades,” he said, describing their meeting as “pleasant” and noting Tinubu’s high spirits.
Beyond politics, Soludo outlined Anambra’s comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, combining kinetic and non-kinetic measures. He highlighted the state’s Homeland Security Law, passed in January 2025, which targets criminal elements, including rogue native doctors misleading youths into crime. Additionally, he detailed initiatives to empower 5,000 youths through training and job creation, with plans to support another 8,700 soon, underscoring his administration’s focus on economic and social development.
The meeting has stirred political discourse, with some interpreting Soludo’s remarks as a subtle endorsement of Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, despite their differing party affiliations. This comes amid reports of the All Progressives Congress (APC) wooing other regional governors, indicating a broader strategy to consolidate power. Soludo, however, maintained that his support for Tinubu prioritises national interest over partisan politics, reinforcing APGA’s historical commitment to backing the federal government.
The visit follows Tinubu’s earlier trip to Anambra in May 2025, where he inaugurated several state projects, including the new Anambra State Government House and the Light of the Nation Tower. During that visit, Tinubu praised Soludo’s leadership and pledged federal support to address challenges like gully erosion, a persistent issue in the state. Soludo’s latest remarks suggest a deepening partnership, with the governor jokingly inviting Tinubu to relocate Aso Rock to Anambra for a week or two.
As Nigeria navigates economic and security challenges, Soludo’s alignment with Tinubu signals a call for unity among progressive leaders. While he remained tight-lipped about the specifics of their discussion, the governor’s outspoken support for Tinubu’s policies and their long-standing friendship have set tongues wagging about the future of Nigerian politics.
