Tinubu’s ambitious henchmen: The men with eyes beyond tomorrow

A deep look into recent political developments, and speculations within Nigeria’s political landscape, have shown that several members of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet and close allies are already positioning themselves for the presidency in 2031, with many analysts anticipating a return of power to the North.

The administration of President Tinubu is marked by a “high-stake gamble” on economic reforms, heavily influenced by a large, politically-motivated cabinet. While Tinubu has pushed for aggressive, market-driven policies, the ambitions of his team have led to a mixed bag of results.

The key impacts of ambitious cabinet members on policies based on political overload and performance. The cabinet is noted to be “too big,” with over 45 members, creating a situation where appointments are often driven by political patronage rather than competence, according to critics. This, in turn, can slow down the implementation of policies.

Ambitious members often disagree on the pace and direction of reforms, particularly regarding the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of foreign exchange rates, creating a “mixed bag of progress and challenges.”

Tinubu has had to urge his cabinet members to “suspend personal ambitions” and prioritise the “Renewed Hope Agenda” (his 2023 campaign promise), indicating that some members are more focused on their political futures than the administration’s goals, resulting in policy inconsistency.

Some observers argue that the administration’s approach to policymaking is at times “unpredictable” or not well thought-out, resulting in policy U-turns, suspensions, and a lack of investor confidence.

Here are the key figures mentioned in relation to a 2031 presidential ambition.

George Akume

The current Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume is considered the most presidential hopeful to take over from Tinubu political structure in 2031 according to some political watchers.

APC has never filled a Christian presidential candidate since its merger in 2013. With Nigeria being nicknamed “a country of Particular Concern’ by the United States of America based on the alleged Christian genocide, Akume stands a better chance among Tinubu’s allies to take over the presidency in 2031. In February 2024, George Akume was crowned as a ‘Star Associate’ of president Tinubu.

It should also be recalled that Senator Akume’s relationship with Tinubu predates when he served as chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and openly opposed President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term agenda, describing it as harmful to democracy. He was among the governors who resisted what they perceived as electoral irregularities at the time, contributing to the strengthening of democratic principles in Nigeria.

Akume, together with Tinubu, has contributed immensely to the advancement of true democracy.

In 2023 presidential election, Akume campaigned vigorously for Tinubu, delivering Benue State to the party.

In the 2027 presidential election ahead, Akume is expected to deliver North Central to the president as a political leader of the zone.

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA)

Reports have indicated that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai accused Nuhu Ribadu of harboring ambitions for the 2031 presidency. Although Ribadu has dismissed these claims, stating he is focused on his national assignment, his role as NSA gives him significant national influence.

Nuhu Ribadu was the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) presidential candidate in the 2011 general election. As the former EFCC chairman, he ran on the track record of achievement at the anti-corruption commission, but lost to Goodluck Jonathan. He later moved to the APC, where he is currently serving as National Security Adviser as of 2023. Ribadu was selected by the ACN on January 14, 2011, after a proposed merger with the CPC failed.

Nyesom Wike, FCT minister

While Nyesom Wike has publicly stated his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu till 2031, he has denied running for president in 2027. His immense influence and political maneuvering have led to constant speculation about his future presidential ambitions. Some observers said his eyes could be on 2031.

Kashim Shettima, vice president

Kashim Shettima represents a rare blend of intellect, resilience, and reformist. A trained agricultural economist who evolved into a banker and politician, Shettima’s rise from the lecture halls of the University of Maiduguri to the corridors of Aso Rock Villa mirrors Nigeria’s search for leadership rooted in both intellect and experience.

Since assuming office as Nigeria’s 15th Vice President on May 29, 2023, he has steadily redefined the nation’s second-highest political office, not as a ceremonial seat, but as a centre of policy coordination and economic direction. As Vice President, Shettima now chairs key economic councils, including the National Economic Council (NEC) and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC)

From mid-2025, some political observers had insinuated that Shettima’s spot on a potential future APC ticket was not in doubt, highlighting his political future.

Though in early 2026, Shettima emphasised that “intention without the willingness to pay the price of service remains wishful thinking,” reflecting a focus on current service rather than overt maneuvering for higher office.

It is important to note that many of these figures above have publicly reaffirmed their support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, and many are heavily focused on the 2027 election cycle, where it is widely expected that Tinubu will seek re-election. However, political analysts often point to 2031 as the likely end of the southern slot, making it a focal point for long-term political strategising.