Makinde unveils 2027 manifesto, proposes sharing oil windfalls and electoral reforms

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), has unveiled his campaign manifesto titled the Reset Agenda. Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, Makinde outlined a platform focused on translating economic growth into tangible improvements for ordinary citizens. The gathering took place in the Transcorp Hilton's Congress Hall, with attendees including his vice-presidential candidate, Alhaji Lawal Musa Daura, and the APM National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle. The manifesto was presented ahead of the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Background

Makinde’s plan focuses on a system that guarantees Nigerians receive a share of any extra income derived from crude oil sales that exceed the set national budget threshold. He argued that the benefits of increased oil revenue should extend beyond government savings and allocations to directly improve living conditions. Makinde criticized the current Federal Government’s policies, stating that Nigeria is rich in both natural and human resources but suffers from a shortage of ideas in leadership. He identified the disconnect between macroeconomic reforms and the welfare of citizens as a major challenge, asserting that economic stability is meaningless if it does not enhance the lives of the population.

Regarding governance, Makinde committed to setting specific, quantifiable goals during the initial 100 days of his tenure, should he win the election. He stressed the importance of stricter oversight over public finances, arguing that stated policy objectives require concrete execution plans and effective institutional support. Concerning power supply, he called on the public to demand that the Federal Government fulfill its commitments regarding electricity improvements. He argued that delegating regulatory authority over electricity to the states does not relieve the Federal Government of its duty to solve issues related to power generation and distribution.

Why it matters

The proposal touches on key economic and political concerns affecting millions of Nigerians, particularly those in rural communities. Makinde stated that his administration would focus on improving living conditions and expanding opportunities irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliations. He described his ambition as being driven by the need to tackle the country’s development challenges and restore the vision of the nation’s founding fathers. He emphasized the necessity of developing people’s abilities and ensuring that public institutions function effectively to serve the populace.

On the political front, Makinde proposed significant electoral reforms. He suggested that presidential candidates should secure more than 50 percent of the votes cast to emerge victorious, arguing that this arrangement would encourage broader political cooperation and consensus-building. Furthermore, he supported the creation of a temporary national unity administration and the convening of a national conference to address national issues and determine a shared path forward.

What happens next

During the launch ceremony, Makinde’s running mate, Alhaji Lawal Musa Daura, who previously served as Director-General of the Department of State Services, condemned the curbing of opposition groups. Daura asserted that fair conditions are necessary to maintain a democratic system. Delivering the welcome remarks, APM National Chairman Yusuf Mamman Dantalle characterized the 2027 election as a decisive moment for millions of Nigerians who wish to overhaul the nation. He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to stay impartial and guarantee calm, trustworthy voting, cautioning that cheating in elections poses a serious danger to the country.