TSG Urges APC Appointees to Include Support Groups in Government Patronage
The leadership of the Tinubu Support Group (TSG) has issued a strong appeal to political appointees within the current administration, urging them to ensure that members of the support groups that backed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are actively included in government appointments and patronage. This call was made during the grand finale of TSG's free Ramadan feeding programme and interfaith breaking of fast event held in Abuja on Monday.
Recognition and Rewards for Loyal Supporters
Speaking at the event, TSG Director-General, Umar Tanko Yakasai, highlighted the efforts of the group's founder, James Faleke, in ensuring that many members of the Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) and other supporters have been recognised and rewarded with appointments across various federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Yakasai emphasised that this process of rewarding loyal members is ongoing and remains a priority for the organisation.
"One thing we must remember is that not everyone can be appointed due to the limited positions available in government. Those who have been appointed should do everything possible to carry as many members of the support groups along, ensuring patronage and mutual support while also reinforcing the President's efforts to reward party faithfuls," Yakasai stated.
Limited Appointments and the Need for Inclusivity
While acknowledging the critical role TSG played in mobilising support for Tinubu since its founding in 2020 and during the 2023 presidential campaign and election, Yakasai pointed out the practical constraints of government appointments. He stressed that due to the limited number of available positions, not all supporters can be accommodated in official roles. However, he urged those who have secured appointments to extend patronage and support to other group members, fostering a culture of mutual assistance.
Grand Finale of Ramadan Feeding Programme
The event, which attracted a diverse audience including support group leaders, Muslim and Christian faithful, party leaders at all levels, government appointees, and women and youth leaders, alongside hundreds of supporters, also served as the culmination of TSG's free Ramadan feeding initiative. Yakasai praised Faleke for his contributions, noting that since the start of Ramadan, the TSG founder had supported the daily free distribution of iftar meals and drinks across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to assist people observing Ramadan and Lent in breaking their fast.
"This generous initiative has enabled many who could not afford food to break their fast with dignity and honour. May Allah bless him and reward him abundantly," he added.
Calls for National Unity and Support
Other party leaders at the gathering used the platform to urge Nigerians to rally behind the current administration and reject tribalism and religious bias. Mercy Almona-Isei, a former member of the House of Representatives from Delta State, spoke at the event, highlighting that the overlap of Ramadan and Lenten fasting periods between Muslims and Christians offers Nigerians a valuable lesson in unity.
"Without unity and peace, national progress is impossible. Despite global challenges, we now have a leader who is focused, strong, and determined to achieve what others could not. That is the essence of Renewed Hope," she said.
Almona-Isei called on Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu, emphasising that collective backing is essential for advancing national development and achieving the administration's goals.
