Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in 2027.
At a summit in Abuja on Thursday, the APC declared Tinubu their sole presidential candidate for a second and final term.
Tinubu, 73, won the 2023 presidential election, overcoming legal challenges from rivals who alleged rigging. He maintains his victory was fair.
The party praised Tinubu’s reforms, citing economic recovery following the removal of petrol subsidies and currency liberalisation.
These policies earned approval from credit rating agencies, foreign investors, and the International Monetary Fund, despite stirring public hardship.
Critics blame Tinubu’s reforms for causing the most severe cost-of-living crisis in recent memory across Nigeria.
APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje affirmed the endorsement, highlighting the summit’s alignment with Tinubu’s presidency’s second anniversary.
Several cabinet ministers presented achievements, promoting progress under Tinubu’s leadership despite ongoing challenges.
Tinubu faces criticism for failing to resolve insecurity issues, including insurgency and widespread banditry affecting many regions.
However, a fractured and weakened opposition struggles to present a credible threat to Tinubu’s bid for another term.
The opposition has also suffered defections to the APC, a trend Tinubu expects to continue, calling it “the game.”
Under Nigeria’s constitution, presidents may serve a maximum of two four-year terms, making 2027 potentially Tinubu’s last chance.
As the political landscape sharpens, Tinubu’s endorsement signals a determined push to solidify his legacy amid turbulence.
