Former Plateau State Governor and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, has declared his intention to seek re-election, citing constituency projects and continuity as key pillars of his bid.

Lalong, who currently chairs the Senate Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters, made this declaration while addressing journalists in Jos, where he also endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s most viable leader ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said his decision to return to the Senate was driven by sustained calls from constituents, describing it as a collective mandate rather than personal ambition.

According to him, his legislative record includes contributions to the amendment of the Electoral Act, advocacy for increased women’s representation, and sponsorship of bills for the establishment of federal institutions, including proposed universities in Plateau State.

The lawmaker also highlighted constituency interventions across the six local government areas of Plateau South, covering education, healthcare, water supply and rural electrification.

“Infrastructure and social services delivered so far reflect our commitment to the people,” he said.

On national politics, Lalong dismissed concerns over internal realignments within the All Progressives Congress, noting that defections remain a recurring feature of Nigeria’s political process.

Backing Tinubu’s administration, he pointed to increased federal allocations to states and ongoing economic reforms as indicators of progress, despite prevailing challenges.

“Leadership is about direction, and the current administration has shown clear commitment to repositioning the economy,” he stated.

On electoral reforms, Lalong clarified that Nigeria’s system does not yet support full electronic voting, explaining that result transmission applies mainly after collation.

Addressing insecurity in Plateau State, he emphasised the need for dialogue, inclusiveness and institutional frameworks, rather than reliance on military solutions alone.

Lalong added that with his decades of experience spanning the legislature and executive, his quest for another term is anchored on service, stability and development of the Plateau Southern Zone.