Tinubu launches 2027 re-election bid in Kaduna, pledges continued economic reforms

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally launched his re-election campaign for the 2027 presidential election, holding the All Progressives Congress (APC) flag-off event at Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna State on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The President was accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and their wives as he addressed a large gathering of supporters. Tinubu used the occasion to seek a second mandate, urging Nigerians to vote for him and his running mate on January 16, 2027, to allow his administration to consolidate its policies and finish its work.

During his address, Tinubu defended his administration’s economic track record, asserting that the government has delivered prosperity, growth, and recovery. He specifically highlighted the removal of the petrol subsidy as a decisive and courageous move that ended years of corruption, fraudulent invoicing, and fuel smuggling in the sector. The President stated that there is no return to the previous subsidy regime and noted that the reforms have generated increased revenues, which are now being channelled to states through APC governors. He also pointed to the regular payment of salaries and the progress of infrastructure projects under APC governors as evidence of effective governance.

Background

Following a campaign centered on promises to combat poverty, enhance food security, generate employment, bolster safety, and broaden electrical connectivity, President Tinubu took office in May 2023. His 2023 Renewed Hope manifesto included commitments to restructure the economy to stimulate growth, reduce unemployment, promote domestic manufacturing, and attract investment. Since taking office, his administration has implemented significant economic reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system. The government has defended these measures as necessary steps to stabilise public finances and improve the overall economy. However, these reforms have resulted in significant financial pressure on households, with rising transport and living costs becoming major concerns for many Nigerians. The current campaign launch mirrors several promises made during the 2023 election cycle, focusing on continuity and the consolidation of existing policies.

Why it matters

The launch of the 2027 campaign highlights the ongoing debate in Nigeria regarding the impact of economic reforms on the general population. While the administration argues that its policies are laying the foundation for long-term stability and growth, opposition critics have pointed to worsening economic conditions, specifically citing issues of hunger and poverty. Tinubu responded to these criticisms by attributing the current problems to previous administrations and political opponents, arguing that his government inherited deep-rooted issues it did not create. The President acknowledged the hardships faced by citizens, stating that their sacrifices would not be in vain, while maintaining that the path forward requires continued support for his administration. The stakes for the January 2027 election include the direction of Nigeria’s economic policies, the continuation of infrastructure development, and the management of public finances. The turnout in Kaduna, which Tinubu described as reflecting the strength of his movement, underscores the political mobilisation efforts heading into the election cycle.

What happens next

The next major milestone in the political calendar is the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027. Tinubu has explicitly called on voters to bring their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) on that date to cast their ballots. The APC will continue its campaign activities across the country, aiming to secure the mandate needed to continue the administration’s work. Meanwhile, other political parties, including the New Democratic Congress (NDC), are also active in the political landscape, with recent reports of defections to the NDC and the hosting of their Vice Presidential Candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, indicating growing momentum for opposition parties ahead of the polls.