A non-governmental organisation, Gombe State Promoters Forum in Broadcasting Media, has called on the former minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Ali Isa Pantami, to contest for governorship in Gombe State, Northeast Nigeria, in 2027.

Chairman of the group, Nafiu Usman spoke on its behalf on Monday, during a solidarity visit to Pantami after he concluded a long distance of about 562 kilometers ride on a motorcycle from Gombe to Abuja. He noted that the group is pushing for Pantami because of the invaluable contributions he has made to develop youths in Gombe and Nigeria in the area of innovation and technology,

Usman said “On behalf of our humble organization, I appeal to you to contest the 2027 Gombe State Governorship election to continue with the good work you have been doing and to transform our state as you did to the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy when you served as the minister”.

In his response, Professor Pantami appreciated the organization for the solidarity visit from Gombe State to Abuja. He stated that similar requests were made before by some groups for him to contest for the Governorship seat in the state, adding that he will officially inform the people of Gombe of their decisions at the right time.

He said “I appreciate your effort and the people of Gombe State who find me worthy to contest for Governorship in the State. However, a similar request was made before, and when the right time comes, we will inform the people of our stand.

“Gombe State has been blessed by governors since the administration of late Alhaji Abubakar Hashidu up to this present administration of his Excellency Muhammad Inuwa, and we thank God Almighty for having people whose patriotism is to transform the State.”

He further appealed to the people of the state or any organization to desist from covering long-distance kilometers on Bicycles or motorcycles due to insecurity challenges and health-related issues to visit him.

In his words of appreciation, a close friend of the former Minister, Alhaji Abdullahi Ahmed also commended the association and thanked the Almighty God for the save arrival of Nafiu Usman and prayed for the unity, peace, and progress of Gombe State and Nigeria at large.