Katsina Activist Zainab Saida Defends Tinubu’s Leadership, Calls for Second Term

Katsina-based activist Hajia Zainab Saida has expressed her strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that he deserves a second term due to his bold and transformative policies across economic, social, and political spheres. Saida, who is also a prominent APC chieftain and the founder of the Neighborhood Committee Network (NCN), a community-driven initiative focused on governance, social cohesion, and sustainability, believes Tinubu’s critics are simply envious of his achievements.

In an interview with The Nation, Saida encouraged Nigerians to remain patient with the president’s leadership. She remarked, “I believe Tinubu’s leadership has good intentions. Nigerians should ignore the Kwankwasos, Peter Obi’s, and Atiku’s of this world who are still mourning their past political losses.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 election, Saida confirmed her full support for Tinubu and his running mate, Dikko Radda, saying, “We in Katsina will vote for Tinubu and Dikko Radda again come 2027.”

Saida acknowledged that some of Tinubu’s policies may take time to show full results, noting that certain economic reforms may extend beyond the administration’s lifespan. “Tinubu’s policies may not likely crystallize quickly, but with time, in fact, some of them, to be candid and honest, may crystallize beyond the lifespan of the administration,” she said.

She emphasized that leadership is a long-term journey, not a sprint. “The whole concept of life itself is a marathon. Some economic policies cannot be a hundred-meter dash.”

Saida also highlighted Tinubu’s key achievements, including the autonomy granted to local governments, which she believes will lead to poverty reduction as councils begin receiving direct funding this month. She further commended the improved security measures and local refining of petroleum products, which she believes will help tackle inflation and strengthen the ongoing economic reforms.