ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) President Bola Tinubu has formally entered the race for a second term in 2027 after allies purchased the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination forms on his behalf, setting the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election. The APC began selling forms this week, with Tinubu’s longtime associate Rep. James Faleke leading a delegation to collect the ₦100 million documents in Abuja. The move signals the president’s intent to consolidate power as his party rallies behind him.
Tinubu, who won the presidency in 2023 under the APC banner, has faced mounting pressure over economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and currency unification. While his administration tout’s infrastructure projects and a “Renewed Hope Agenda,” critics argue that inflation and unemployment have eroded public confidence. Similar re-election bids have marked Nigeria’s political history, with former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan both seeking second terms amid mixed public sentiment, underscoring the challenges incumbents face in balancing governance with campaign politics.
Party leaders quickly lined up behind Tinubu. APC chairman Abdullahi Ganduje described him as “the best candidate for 2027,” citing his political experience and reform agenda. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara urged Nigerians to back Tinubu, highlighting federal investments in coastal infrastructure. Civil society groups have launched a campaign to gather 20 million signatures in support of his re-election, while pro-Tinubu organizations abroad are mobilizing diaspora involvement.
Opposition leaders, however, are moving to counter the president’s momentum. Figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and other groups convened in Ibadan, pledging to unite behind a single candidate. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi were among those present. APC officials dismissed the alliance as a “coalition of confusion,” while ministers Festus Keyamo and Nyesom Wike questioned its viability.
On social media, hashtags such as Tinubu2027 and OneCandidateOpposition trended. Supporters praised Tinubu’s “bold reforms” and called the purchase of forms a “historic moment.” Critics questioned the ₦100 million nomination fee, arguing it entrenches elite politics and alienates ordinary Nigerians. Neutral voices framed the contest as a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience.
Tinubu enters the race with the advantage of incumbency and widespread endorsements from APC governors. However, opposition unity efforts and internal dissent, including a challenge from Edo politician Osifo Stanley; could complicate his path to victory. With campaigns set to begin later this year, the months ahead will test whether endorsements and grassroots mobilization can outweigh economic discontent and a united opposition front.
