Neptune Prime, Yobe First Movement Workshop: CSOs urge Tumsah to join Yobe gubernatorial race in 2027
Story by Kasim Isa MUHAMMAD
Over 100 people representing civil society organisations from Yobe South have declared a preference for Kashim Musa Tumsah, popularly known as KMT, as the next governor of Yobe State.
The representatives made the decision at the end of a one-day workshop held in Potiskum that focused on citizen reporting and the use of social media to promote good governance.
The workshop was organised by Neptune Prime Network and sponsored by Yobe First Movement.
The coalition, comprising women-led associations, youth groups, professional unions, and informal sector representatives, issued a detailed communiqué outlining their reasons for supporting the philanthropist and development advocate.
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The communiqué was presented at the workshop’s closing session.
“We, representatives of civil society organisations from across the 44 wards of Yobe South Senatorial District, after extensive discussions and consultations with our members, hereby announce our collective endorsement of Kashim Musa Tumsah as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State.”
“This resolution is based not on sentiment or partisan loyalty but on verifiable contributions made by Mr Tumsah in humanitarian service, grassroots development, and empowerment.
“For years, he has helped displaced families, supported widows, facilitated educational programmes for orphans and less privileged children, and offered medical outreach across multiple communities without seeking political recognition.”
“As we approach the 2027 general election, our unified goal is to support a candidate whose values align with transparency, compassion, inclusion and development. We believe that Kashim Musa Tumsah possesses the vision, humility and integrity to govern Yobe State effectively and equitably.”
The communiqué also revealed plans to establish a grassroots mobilisation framework that will sensitise communities across the state about leadership, accountability and the need to vote responsibly.
Amina Ibrahim, Coordinator of Women Voice Initiative, spoke on behalf of several women-focused groups, stressing that the endorsement was based on experience and long-term trust.
“Many people come with promises, but very few have done what Kashim Musa Tumsah has done without holding public office. He has consistently intervened in maternal healthcare crises, offered scholarships to young girls in rural schools, and partnered with local clinics to ensure access to childbirth support for pregnant women in places like Fika, Fune and Nangere.”
“Our decision is not political. It is personal. It is based on his real and lasting impact on our lives. Women in Yobe need a governor who sees them, listens to them and stands by them even when cameras are not watching. That is why we are standing with him.”
According to Shamsuddeen Idriss Shareef, a well-known entrepreneur and community volunteer in Potiskum, Kashim Musa Tumsah has earned the people’s trust not through campaign promises but through years of quiet service.
“For years, we have seen people only show up when elections are near, but Kashim Musa Tumsah has been different. He has been helping people long before politics came into the picture,” he said.
“He has supported widows, students, traders and even young people trying to start small businesses without ever attaching it to politics or expecting something in return. That is rare and it speaks volumes about his character. That is why I, Shamsuddeen Idriss Shareef, am endorsing him.”
“This endorsement is not about fanfare. It is about recognising someone who has always stood with the people. I will personally work to mobilise others, including friends, families and business associates across the senatorial district, because our votes must go to someone who has already proven himself.”
Training on responsible media use and citizen journalism
The endorsement coincided with a capacity-building programme, Citizen Reporting and the Role of Social Media in Promoting Good Governance, organised by Neptune Prime Limited.
Held at Annur Hotel in Potiskum, the training brought together participants across Yobe State.
Professor Ahmed Bedu, who led one of the major sessions, emphasised that social media must become a tool for civic enlightenment rather than misinformation.
“Social media is not just a platform for sharing news. It is a battleground for narratives. And it is up to you to ensure the truth prevails. Use your platforms to highlight positive examples of leadership, expose wrongdoing, and promote voter education.”
“You do not need to be employed by a news outlet to report facts. You are already journalists in your capacity. You are responsible for holding power accountable and raising awareness about issues affecting your communities.”
Malam Abubakar Ahmed, retired Deputy Director at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), urged participants to become more active in online engagement for developmental purposes.
“Each of you has the potential to shift public thinking. Stop using your data only for gossip or entertainment. Use your digital presence to share stories of courage, injustice and progress. Social media can enlighten and mobilise communities when used with purpose.”
In his remarks, Dr Hassan Gimba, publisher of Neptune Prime Nigeria Limited, advised the participants to treat the workshop as a starting point for broader community engagement.
“This training was designed to equip you with tools that can bring real change. You are now ambassadors of responsible communication. Speak up against disinformation. Use your content to advocate for better governance and inspire civic participation.”
“As 2027 approaches, you must not sit on the sidelines. Ask questions. Analyse manifestos. Demand clarity. Use your social media platforms to drive issues, not division. You are the bridge between policy and the people.”
In his presentation, Dr. Saleh Mari Maina emphasised the transformative power of social media, describing it as a vital tool for societal change. He stated, “Social media is powerful enough to change society,” and urged young people to harness its potential.
According to him, platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram can be used to “challenge the status quo and reshape public narratives.”
He added that with consistency and purpose, individuals can drive meaningful conversations and influence policy decisions through digital engagement.
After the event, participants resolved to establish a Yobe Digital Advocacy Network to coordinate campaigns for transparency, good governance, and voter awareness, particularly in underserved communities.
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