Salihu unveiled his nomination and expression of interest forms on Tuesday afternoon in Yola before a large crowd of supporters, during which he also inaugurated his campaign office.

While addressing his supporters, he solicited their backing for his governorship ambition and called on APC members to remain united and loyal, stressing that party cohesion would be key to electoral success.

Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Bathiya Wesley, noted that Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has set a strong standard in governance, adding that Salihu possesses the capacity to build on those achievements as a worthy successor.

The event was attended by notable political figures, including Senator Binta Masi Garba, former House of Representatives member Captain Yusuf Buba, and several serving members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, among others.

In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Tuesday, Jonathan said Yar’Adua was not only a leader but also a servant of the people who consistently placed national stability above personal or political interests.

He described the late president as a man of quiet but strong conviction, who believed that a nation’s strength lies in its commitment to the rule of law and respect for the electoral process.

Jonathan also prayed for Allah to grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus.

He noted that May 5, 2026, marks 16 years since Nigeria lost Yar’Adua, describing him as a hero, patriot, and a trusted partner in nation-building.

Reflecting on their relationship, Jonathan said Yar’Adua was not just his boss but also a brother with whom he shared a common vision of building a just, inclusive, and united Nigeria.

According to him, their collaboration was rooted in a shared commitment to justice as a lived reality for all citizens rather than just a political slogan.

He further praised Yar’Adua’s contributions to peace-building, noting that the late president understood that genuine nation-building requires honesty, courage to confront challenges, and willingness to correct national shortcomings.

Jonathan said Yar’Adua’s leadership remains a lasting lesson, stressing that governance is a sacred responsibility that must be guided by transparency, accountability, and genuine love for the people.

He added that even 16 years after his passing, Yar’Adua’s achievements continue to speak for him, urging Nigerians to renew their commitment to the ideals he stood for.

The request was read during plenary on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and was contained in a letter sent to the upper legislative chamber.

Relying on Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the President to appoint ministers subject to Senate confirmation, Tinubu urged lawmakers to give the nomination swift consideration.

The President also forwarded two additional nominations for screening: Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State, and Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Reports indicate that Tegbe was earlier nominated last week as Minister of Power. According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the nomination has been officially transmitted to the Senate for confirmation in line with constitutional requirements.

Tegbe’s nomination follows the resignation of Adebayo Adelabu, who stepped down to pursue the Oyo State governorship race ahead of the 2027 elections. Like his predecessor, Tegbe also hails from Oyo State.

He is widely regarded as a fiscal and economic reform expert with more than 35 years of experience across both the public and private sectors. He previously served as Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa, where he led major projects in fiscal policy reform, institutional transformation, and governance.

Over the years, he has advised government agencies and private sector organisations on strategic reforms, regulatory frameworks, and investment structuring.