President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday welcomed former state governors from Nigeria’s historic 1999 set to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marking a nostalgic reunion more than two decades after they took office during the dawn of the Fourth Republic.

The private meeting, which sources described as cordial and reflective, brought together several influential figures from the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999. It was led by former Edo State Governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, and featured prominent names such as Donald Duke, George Akume, Sam Egwu, Adamu Mu’azu, James Ibori, and others who once held sway across Nigeria’s 36 states.

President Tinubu, who governed Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, shared memories with his former colleagues and emphasized the importance of their continued relevance in national discourse. The gathering served as a platform to explore how the class of ’99 can support democratic governance, promote national unity, and contribute their wealth of experience to Nigeria’s development.

The closed-door discussions reportedly touched on key national issues, including governance challenges and the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.

Described as the pioneers of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, the class of 1999 governors played a critical role in shaping the early years of democratic leadership after decades of military rule. Many of them have remained active in politics or public service, with some—like George Akume—currently serving in President Tinubu’s administration.

The reunion was not only symbolic of long-standing political ties but also a reminder of the enduring influence of the 1999 set in shaping Nigeria’s governance landscape.