By Peter Omopo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday formally accepted the presidential nomination of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 general election, pledging to consolidate ongoing reforms aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s economy and governance structure.
Speaking at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja before party leaders, governors, and delegates, the President said the mandate of his administration remains unfinished and required continuity to sustain what he described as emerging progress.
“In 2022, our task was to chart a new direction for our party and nation. Today, our task is to affirm that continuity is essential — to consolidate reform, secure progress, and strengthen the foundation of a modern Nigeria,” he said.
Tinubu used the platform to defend key policy decisions of his administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange reforms, which triggered inflationary pressures but, according to him, have begun to stabilise the economy.
He claimed that recent indicators show improvement in macroeconomic conditions, noting that the naira had strengthened and external reserves were increasing. He also linked inflationary pressures partly to global disruptions, including conflicts in the Middle East.
On education, the President said the Nigerian Education Loan Fund had disbursed over ₦282 billion to more than 1.5 million beneficiaries. In the power sector, he stated that 2.5 million electricity meters had been distributed and generation had peaked at about 6,000 megawatts, representing an improvement over 2023 levels.
Tinubu also acknowledged ongoing security challenges across parts of the country, describing them as a major concern his administration remains committed to addressing.
“I take seriously the responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of every Nigerian,” he said, adding that investments had been made in intelligence gathering, surveillance systems, and military equipment.
He called on the National Assembly to expedite constitutional reforms that would enable the creation of state police, describing the proposal as urgent for addressing localised security threats.
The President also appealed for political unity ahead of the 2027 elections, warning against what he described as opposition figures without credible alternatives.
“Let’s not give in to complacency by allowing politicians with no clear alternative vision to take our country backwards,” he said.
Tinubu framed the 2027 poll as a test of Nigeria’s democratic maturity, insisting that his administration is prepared to run on its record of economic adjustment and reform despite the hardship experienced by citizens.
“We do not dismiss these concerns. We understand them and govern not in comfort, but in reality — with honesty and action,” he added.
With the APC ticket secured, attention now shifts to opposition parties as political realignments intensify ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive election cycle.
