Hay River  (July 9, 2025) - Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson issued the following statement today on Premier P.J. Akeeagok’s announcement that he will not seek re-election this fall:

"I want to extend my sincere thanks to Premier Akeeagok for his leadership, his friendship, and his unwavering commitment to the people of Nunavut and to the North as a whole.

Over the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Premier Akeeagok as both a colleague and a friend. I’ve always been struck by his calm and steady presence, his deep love for his territory and its people, and his remarkable ability to connect with others. People are drawn to P.J. because he is kind, thoughtful, and genuinely authentic—and that has made him not only a strong leader, but a deeply respected one.

P.J. has led Nunavut through historic moments—from the launch of Nunavut 3000 to the signing of the devolution agreement—and has done so with heart, humility, and integrity. He has been a powerful voice for Inuit self-determination, for housing, for families, and for a stronger, more resilient North.

He has also played a key role in raising national and international awareness of the North’s strategic importance. As global attention increasingly turns to the Arctic, P.J.’s leadership has helped ensure that Northern voices, priorities, and partnerships are front and centre—from infrastructure investments like the Arctic Security Corridor to long-term efforts to strengthen sovereignty and economic resilience across our territories.

It is especially meaningful to reflect on his leadership today, on Nunavut Day—a day that honours the strength, vision, and perseverance of Nunavummiut, and the milestone that Nunavut represents in Canada’s history. Premier Akeeagok embodies the spirit of this day, and the legacy of leaders who helped make it possible.

I look forward to continuing to work with Premier Akeeagok in the months ahead, and I wish him and his family all the best as they prepare for the next chapter.

Qujannamiik, P.J. Thank you for your service, your partnership, and everything you’ve done for Nunavut and the North."

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