Analysis-As Campaigns Begin in Nigeria, Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid Puts His Party on Trial

ABUJA, Aug 19 (Reuters) – As campaigning for January’s elections begins in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term has effectively placed his All Progressives Congress (APC) party on trial, with voters weighing his controversial economic reforms against the country’s ongoing struggles.

Tinubu has defended his administration’s measures as necessary to unwind years of state intervention, citing higher revenues and stronger investor interest as evidence of progress. However, the reality on the ground for many Nigerians remains difficult.

The APC’s tenure from 2015 to 2026 makes for unhappy reading and Tinubu’s reforms have particularly brought severe pain.

This sentiment, expressed by Cheta Nwanze, a partner at Nigeria-based risk advisory SBM Intelligence, reflects the broader skepticism among the electorate. While the government points to macroeconomic indicators, critics argue that violence, kidnappings, and banditry remain rife, overshadowing the administration’s claims of restored stability.