Former NIS CG, Babandede, Joins APC, Declares Support For Tinubu, Namadi

Former Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Muhammed Babandede, has formally registered with the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi ahead of the 2027 elections.

Babandede completed his registration in Hadejia Local Government Area of Jigawa State and declared his intention to contest the Jigawa North-East Senatorial seat in 2027 under the APC platform.

Speaking to journalists in his hometown, the former immigration chief recalled that he had been encouraged by supporters to contest the governorship in 2023 but chose not to pursue the ambition.

He commended Governor Namadi’s performance, saying the state was fortunate to have elected him.

“With his performance, he has the mandate for an additional four years should he decide to run. I will not be seeking the governorship in 2027,” Babandede stated.

He described his formal registration with the APC as a procedural step, noting that he had long identified with the party and actively campaigned for both Governor Namadi and President Tinubu during the 2023 general elections.

Babandede explained that his decision to run for the Senate followed sustained appeals from stakeholders across Jigawa North-East. He pledged to focus on core legislative responsibilities, including law-making, protection of constituents’ rights and fostering synergy between the National Assembly, the state government and the Federal Government to avoid duplication of projects.

Departing from what he described as the traditional practice of distributing consumables as constituency projects, Babandede said he would prioritise institution-building and strengthening educational capacity to promote sustainable development. He added that a comprehensive needs assessment had already been conducted across the senatorial district to guide future interventions.

Babandede was appointed Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service on 15 May 2016 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Before his appointment, he served as Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Operations and Passports.

He retired in 2021 after 36 years of service.