APC launches 2027 campaign in Kaduna, urging Nigerians to back Tinubu for second term

The All Progressives Congress (APC) officially commenced its 2027 presidential campaign on Saturday at the Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna. The event marked the formal launch of the party's efforts to secure victory in the general election scheduled for January 16, 2027. President Bola Tinubu attended the rally, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, as party leaders sought to rally support for the incumbent administration ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Nentawe Yilwatda, the national chairman of the APC, delivered the keynote address during the flag-off ceremony. He asserted that President Tinubu has earned the confidence of the Nigerian people and merits a second term to consolidate the reforms initiated by his administration. Yilwatda described the president as a courageous leader who has demonstrated the political will to make difficult but necessary decisions for the country's benefit. He emphasized that the ruling party is united, prepared, and confident in its ability to win the upcoming election.

Background

The campaign launch serves as the starting point for the APC's bid to retain power in the 2027 general elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed January 16, 2027, as the date for the presidential election. The APC's strategy involves highlighting the administration's record, ongoing structural reforms, and plans for national development. Yilwatda noted that the party views the current administration's efforts to address longstanding economic and infrastructure challenges as evidence of its commitment to sustainable growth.

During the rally, Yilwatda presented the APC flags to seven governors from the North-West region who are seeking re-election. These governors are Uba Sani of Kaduna, Abba Yusuf of Kano, Dikko Radda of Katsina, Umar Namadi of Jigawa, Nasir Idris of Kebbi, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara. The chairman emphasized the critical role of the North-West in the party's voting success, calling on regional leaders and members to bolster local outreach efforts and preserve internal cohesion.

Yilwatda additionally alluded to shifts in political alliances concerning the Accord Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). He characterized these shifts as indications of a growing national conversation regarding the direction of the country and the leadership of President Tinubu. The APC chairman urged Nigerians to evaluate the administration not solely by the economic challenges it faces, but also by its efforts to resolve structural problems and improve livelihoods.

Why it matters

The launch of the APC campaign sets the stage for a competitive 2027 electoral cycle in Nigeria. The party is positioning President Tinubu as the most competent and credible candidate for the presidency, aiming to translate the promise of the 'Renewed Hope' agenda into greater opportunities and shared prosperity for citizens. Yilwatda stated that the benefits of the administration's policies would become more evident over time, encouraging voters to consider the long-term impact of the reforms.

The involvement of key political figures, including the President and Vice President, underscores the high stakes of the upcoming election. The APC aims to secure its previous successes and expand its reform agenda, contending that the president requires the time to finish these initiatives and advance the country. The party's focus on the North-West governors highlights the importance of regional mobilization in securing a nationwide victory.

What happens next

The APC's campaign will now focus on promoting the administration's achievements and ongoing reforms to the Nigerian electorate. Party leaders are expected to intensify grassroots mobilization efforts across all states, particularly in the North-West, to ensure strong support for President Tinubu and other APC candidates. The journey toward the January 16, 2027, presidential election has officially begun, with the party expressing confidence in its readiness to secure victory.