By Peter Omopo
Kaduna | September 21, 2025 – The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, has said the president remains a leader for all Nigerians, not only members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Dare made the remarks in a statement on Sunday following Tinubu’s recent visit to Kaduna State, where he attended the wedding of Nasirudeen, son of former Zamfara governor and serving senator, Abdul’aziz Yari, and also paid a condolence visit to Aisha Buhari, widow of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The presidential aide described the trip as a “resounding political validation” that dispelled narratives suggesting parts of the north were hostile to Tinubu.
“In less than five hours, long-held myths dissolved, stereotypes shattered, and sentiments shifted. From the streets to the mosques, the connection between the people and their president was instant,” Dare said.
He added that the visit showcased Tinubu’s ability to engage with Nigerians across divides, noting that the president moved from a wedding ceremony to a condolence call, “demonstrating respect for tradition and embodying humility and compassion.”
A highlight of the visit, according to Dare, was Tinubu’s warm exchange with former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, one of his long-standing critics.
“When Lamido approached, President Tinubu did not recoil, nor offer a cold shoulder. Instead, he welcomed him with an expansive smile and hearty laughter. Their exchange was brief but symbolic — a reminder that leadership is not about grudges but about building bridges,” he said.
Dare noted that Kaduna, historically the political heart of northern leadership, provided a symbolic backdrop for the visit, which drew leading politicians including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Tambuwal, as well as governors from Katsina, Kebbi, and Sokoto states.
He argued that the large turnout and warm reception received by the president disproved claims that the north was a “no-go area” for Tinubu.
“The effect was immediate. Politicians present saw a president secure in his mandate and magnanimous in his dealings. It was a subtle but strong reminder: Tinubu is president for all Nigerians, not just for his supporters,” Dare said.
