Tinubu urges Nigerian youths to collect PVCs ahead of 2027 elections

Tinubu’s call to action

President Bola Tinubu spoke to a gathering during the Rainbow Coalition presidential campaign event held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday, 7 November 2026. He urged Nigerian youths to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate in the forthcoming 2027 general elections, arguing that the election outcome would determine their future.

According to Tinubu, the upcoming vote was not driven by his own desires but rather by the long-term prospects for Nigeria's younger generation. He described the PVC as a “weapon” that could shape the country’s leadership and urged those who had not yet collected their cards to do so. He urged the young attendees to recognize that their destiny hinges on the outcome of this specific election.

Campaign context

The event, hosted by the Rainbow Coalition—a political grouping headed by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike—was staged at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. The coalition includes members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and had previously endorsed Tinubu for a second term. The event was part of Tinubu’s re‑election campaign, which began with a launch in Kaduna State on 24 October.

During the address, Tinubu also highlighted economic progress under his administration. He said the government was clearing unpaid pensions and gratuities that previous administrations had left behind, benefiting retired engineers, welders and teachers. He framed economic development as another tool for young Nigerians to combat poverty.

Why it matters

Tinubu’s message targets the country’s largest demographic group, the youth, who are expected to form a significant portion of the electorate in 2027. By encouraging them to obtain PVCs and vote, the president aims to increase youth participation in the electoral process. The rally’s emphasis on jobs, education and domestic opportunities reflects the concerns that many young Nigerians have expressed about the need for a future that does not require them to seek livelihoods abroad.

The call also aligns with the broader political strategy of the APC and its allies, who seek to consolidate support in key states such as Rivers. The coalition’s endorsement of Tinubu and the unveiling of preferred candidates for various elective positions in Rivers State suggest an attempt to mobilise a broad base of voters ahead of the election.

What happens next

Tinubu’s appeal is part of a series of engagements leading up to the 2027 general elections. The president’s campaign has already launched in Kaduna and is now focusing on mobilising support in other states. While the sources do not detail specific next steps beyond the rally, it is clear that the campaign will continue to encourage PVC collection and voter turnout among young Nigerians.

The rally’s message was echoed by the Daily Post, which reported that Tinubu said the election was “about you, not me” and that the future of the country depends on the youth’s participation. No further dates or policy announcements were provided in the coverage.

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