From Joseph Asegba, Yola
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Yola North, Yola South and Girei Federal Constituency, Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, has promised inclusive representation and grassroots development following his emergence as the party’s candidate ahead of the general elections.
Speaking during a press conference in Yola after the APC primary election, Salihijo thanked Almighty Allah for what he described as a successful outing and expressed appreciation to party delegates, stakeholders and members across the constituency for their confidence in him.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership that continues to position the APC as a platform for governance, democratic stability and political renewal in the country.
Salihijo also appreciated Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for ensuring a level playing field during the primary process, noting that it strengthened confidence in internal democracy.
He further praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, describing him as a leader whose discipline, courage and commitment to national development continue to inspire younger generations in Adamawa State and beyond.
The APC candidate equally thanked the party’s North-East National Vice Chairman, Barrister Idris Shaibu, the Adamawa APC Chairman, Alhaji Hamza Bello Madagali, local government party chairmen, members of the APC State Executive Council, party elders, women and youth groups for their support throughout the exercise.
Calling for reconciliation among party members, Salihijo urged fellow aspirants and their supporters to unite ahead of the general elections.
“Primaries produce candidates, but unity produces victory,” he stated, adding that the focus should now shift towards strengthening the party and working collectively for the success of the constituency.
According to him, the people of Yola North, Yola South and Girei deserve representation capable of attracting development, influencing policy and connecting communities to opportunities.
He noted that effective lawmakers must understand governance systems, budgeting processes and institutional partnerships in order to ensure that federal opportunities reach grassroots communities.
Salihijo said his background in public service, particularly in rural electrification, infrastructure delivery, development finance and institutional leadership, has equipped him with the experience needed to address the challenges facing the constituency.
He identified key areas of focus to include energy access, job creation, youth empowerment, agriculture, education, healthcare and community stability.
The APC candidate stressed that the constituency needs leadership that understands “how Abuja works and how to make Abuja work for the people.”
He also promised to prioritise youth-focused programmes such as digital opportunities, vocational training, entrepreneurship support, SME growth and agricultural value chains to prepare young people for a modern economy.
“Our young people do not want endless handouts. They want pathways to sustainable productivity and opportunities that can help them build meaningful lives,” he said.
On security and social stability, Salihijo argued that development and inclusion remain essential tools for reducing vulnerability and strengthening peace in communities.
He pledged that his representation would be inclusive, assuring that women, youth, traders, farmers, professionals, traditional and religious leaders, as well as persons with disabilities, would all have a voice in governance.
Salihijo described his emergence as “the beginning of responsibility” and expressed optimism that, with unity and commitment, the constituency could achieve stronger economic growth and better representation.
