By Nkechi Eze
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged the people of Cross River State to surpass their previous voting records in the January 2027 presidential election by turning out in large numbers to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Yilwatda made the call at the APC presidential campaign rally in Calabar, where he joined Vice President Kashim Shettima and other party leaders and stakeholders to mobilise support for the President.
According to an official statement signed by Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser to the APC National Chairman on Media and Information Strategy, Yilwatda commended the people of Cross River for their impressive turnout and warm reception at the rally, describing it as a demonstration of growing support for Tinubu’s administration.
He, however, challenged the electorate to translate the enthusiasm demonstrated at the rally into votes, stressing that the 2027 election presents an opportunity for the state to strengthen its position in Nigeria’s political and economic development.
The APC chairman also highlighted the economic prospects of Cross River State under the Federal Government’s infrastructure development agenda, noting that investments in rail transportation, seaport development and the proposed nationwide superhighway network could position the state as a major economic hub.
He explained that the initiatives would improve connectivity, facilitate the movement of goods and people, reduce transportation costs, attract investments and create employment opportunities across the country.
“For Cross River State, the opportunities are enormous. An efficient rail network will improve the movement of people and goods, while functional seaports can expand maritime commerce, create jobs and open new opportunities for businesses.
“A modern highway network will further connect ports, production centres and commercial cities, integrating the state more effectively into Nigeria’s expanding economic landscape,” he said.
Yilwatda maintained that infrastructure development remains a critical component of Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, adding that improved connectivity would enable states to harness their economic potential, attract private investments and contribute more significantly to national development.
He urged Cross River residents to consider the long-term benefits of infrastructure investments, economic reforms and policy continuity as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
The APC national chairman also called on party members, political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, youths and women to intensify grassroots mobilisation and take the party’s message to every ward and community across the state.
He stressed the need for unity, effective organisation and sustained engagement with the electorate, expressing confidence that Cross River would play a significant role in the party’s 2027 campaign.
Yilwatda said a renewed mandate for Tinubu would provide the administration with an opportunity to deepen ongoing reforms, accelerate infrastructure development and expand economic opportunities for Nigerians.
