Nigeria Enters Early Campaign Mode Ahead of 2027 General Elections

2027 Elections

With Nigeria’s 2027 general elections still two years away, the country has already shifted into full campaign mode, sparking debates over whether politics is distracting leaders from urgent governance issues.

In recent weeks, the political space has become charged as opposition heavyweights—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—announced the formation of a strategic alliance to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election.

Political analysts say the alliance, which is being described as an “unprecedented opposition coalition,” could create a formidable force against the APC, especially if the parties agree on a consensus presidential candidate.

Meanwhile, the APC has intensified its own preparations, focusing on consolidating support for President Tinubu’s government. Campaign-style billboards have begun appearing across major cities, showcasing completed infrastructure projects, renaming landmarks, and promoting the administration’s economic recovery plan.

Critics argue that the heightened politicking comes at a time when Nigeria faces pressing challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and rising insecurity in parts of the country.

“We are witnessing a situation where governance is taking a back seat because politicians are focused on 2027 rather than solving today’s problems,” said Lagos-based political analyst, Dr. Musa Ibrahim.

Supporters of early campaigning, however, say it gives voters more time to scrutinize candidates and party manifestos, leading to better-informed choices when elections arrive.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to release the official timetable for the 2027 elections, but political observers expect the contest to be one of the most competitive in Nigeria’s history, given the growing dissatisfaction among young voters and the rise of social media as a political mobilization tool.

As the political temperature rises, stakeholders are calling for a balance between campaign activities and governance, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to lose focus on urgent issues such as economic reforms, power sector stability, and national security.