As campaigns begin in Nigeria, Tinubu’s re-election bid puts his party on trial

As campaigns begin in Nigeria, Tinubu’s re-election bid puts his party on trial. Tinubu says reforms restored stability and investor interest. Critics say violence, kidnappings and banditry are rife.

ABUJA, Aug 19 — Campaigns for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections have formally commenced, marking the start of a high-stakes political season that will test the durability of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms and the unity of his All Progressives Congress (APC) party.

Tinubu says reforms restored stability and investor interest.

While the President maintains that his administration’s policies have successfully stabilized the economy and attracted renewed investor interest, the opposition and various civil society groups argue that the country remains gripped by severe challenges, including rampant inflation, widespread insecurity, and a surge in kidnappings and banditry.

The election is expected to be a referendum on the APC’s governance, with the party facing pressure to defend its record against a fractured but determined opposition. As the campaign trail heats up, the focus remains on whether the government’s narrative of progress can overcome the daily realities faced by millions of Nigerians.