President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed confidence that the City Boy Movement will play a major role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid, saying the group would help secure a "maximum victory" in the 2027 presidential election.
Akpabio made the remarks on Wednesday while receiving a delegation of the pro-Tinubu group during a courtesy visit to his office at the National Assembly.
He described the City Boy Movement as a growing political force whose influence is already being felt across the country.
"The City Boy Movement is like a wind blowing across the nation. You may not see it, but you can feel it. Every political party in Nigeria is already feeling the impact of the City Boy Movement," Akpabio said.
The Senate President said the group's nationwide mobilisation would ensure that the ruling party has representatives at every polling unit during the 2027 general election.
"Never again shall we have a situation in any polling unit in Nigeria where Mr President will not have an agent because we have the City Boy Movement."
He also argued that the group's presence would have improved the outcome of the last presidential election.
"In the last election, if your movement had existed, many of our votes that were not counted in many polling units would have been counted."
Akpabio urged members to intensify voter mobilisation and political education ahead of the next election.
"I want you to have it in mind that you have come up at the right time and I know that you are all poised to ensure maximum victory come 2027," he said.
He also encouraged the group to remain focused despite criticisms from opposition parties.
"As you go round the country mobilising, sensitising the electorate and educating voters, other political parties are sleeping. But when the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is announced, some people will claim the election was rigged. Ignore such comments and remain focused."
Addressing young members of the movement, Akpabio urged them to avoid cultism, drug abuse and other social vices, saying political participation provides an opportunity to prepare for future leadership.
"This is your turn to shape your future. As you campaign for the President, you are also learning how to mobilise and organise yourselves for leadership in the years ahead."
He assured the group of the National Assembly's support and advised members to remain disciplined.
"You are privileged to work for the future of your country. You are privileged to chart the path of the next administration. It will be a tragedy for any of you to derail. We assure you that we are 100 per cent with you."
Earlier, the Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Francis Shoga, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the organisation and the National Assembly.
According to Shoga, the movement will continue expanding its programmes across the country while promoting civic engagement among young Nigerians.
"We seek your continued guidance and support as we expand our programmes across the country, deepen civic engagement among young Nigerians and contribute meaningfully to national development," he said.
