Nigeria’s political season has entered a decisive phase as campaigns for the 2027 presidential election officially commenced on Wednesday, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seeking another term amid economic concerns, insecurity and a fragmented opposition.
The campaign season opened after presidential candidates and political parties signed a National Peace Accord in Abuja on Tuesday, committing themselves to peaceful and issue-based campaigns.
Tinubu, represented at the signing ceremony by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, called on politicians to resist the temptation to turn the election into a battle for personal survival.
The President said the election should be about competing ideas and policies rather than ethnic, religious or personal interests.
“Win or lose, our country, Nigeria, must be the ultimate winner,” Tinubu said.
He also urged political parties to campaign on policies capable of improving the lives of Nigerians rather than resorting to hate speech, misinformation or inflammatory rhetoric.
The development effectively moves the 2027 contest from political positioning and internal party manoeuvring into a formal nationwide campaign period.
Tinubu’s re-election bid is being mounted against a backdrop of widespread concern over living costs and insecurity, issues that are expected to dominate the campaign.
Reuters reported that economic hardship and security concerns remain major challenges for the administration even as the government points to reforms and improving macroeconomic indicators.
The opposition, meanwhile, remains divided, with several prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, still operating without a unified presidential platform.
The fractured opposition could become an important factor in the contest, particularly as the governing All Progressives Congress has strengthened its political presence across the country.
Tinubu also warned against the use of artificial intelligence-generated material, misinformation and hate speech during the campaign, urging politicians and their supporters to protect national cohesion.
With the campaign season now open, Nigerians are expected to see a sharp increase in rallies, policy declarations, endorsements and political realignments ahead of the presidential poll.
