In Nigeria’s political system, many former governors exit the Government House and resurface in the Senate or the Federal Executive Council. Although, the Nigerian Constitution places no restriction on former governors seeking senatorial or ministerial roles, critics argue that this growing pattern helps them to maintain political relevance.
As of early 2026, the 10th National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet are heavily populated by ex-governors who have merely changed seats, not influence.
Here are 5 Nigerian politicians who were once governors now holding federal power:
1. Adams Oshiomhole (Edo State)
Past Role: Two-term Governor of Edo State and former National Chairman of the APC.
Current Power: Senator representing Edo North and Chairman, Senate Committee on Interior.
Oshiomhole’s transition from labour activism to party boss, then senator, is often cited as proof that political relevance in Nigeria is endlessly recyclable.
2. Dave Umahi (Ebonyi State)
Past Role: Two-term Governor of Ebonyi State.
Current Power: Minister of Works in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
3. Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom State)
Past Role: Governor of Akwa Ibom State (2007–2015).
Current Power: President of the 10th Nigerian Senate.
4. Nyesom Wike (Rivers State)
Past Role: Two-term Governor of Rivers State.
Current Power: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
5. Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto State)
Past Role: Governor of Sokoto State (2007–2015).
Current Power: Senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District.
6. Abdul’aziz Yari (Zamfara State)
Past Role: Two-term Governor of Zamfara State (2011–2019).
Current Power: Chairman, Senate Committee on Water Resources (10th Senate).
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