President Bola Tinubu on Sunday cautioned Nigerians against allowing politicians with no clear alternative vision to take the country backward, framing the 2027 presidential election as a referendum on continuity.
He made this known at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja after being handed the Certificate of Return and the flag of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the party’s standard bearer for the 2027 presidential election with 10.9 million votes from the primary election.
From his address to party leaders and supporters at the event, it could be gleaned that the President’s re-election campaign will center around the argument that Nigeria’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms require continuity to succeed.
“This next election must not merely be a contest of parties or ideas, but a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s democratic maturity. As a government, we have taken giant steps forward. Let’s not give in to complacency by allowing politicians with no clear alternative vision to take our country backwards,” the president said.
He repeatedly defended the economic policies introduced since assuming office in May 2023, arguing that the reforms, though difficult, had begun yielding results.
Tinubu cited the removal of petrol subsidy, exchange rate reforms, tax restructuring and infrastructure investments as evidence that his administration was repositioning the economy for long-term growth.
According to him, “We moved away from wasteful fuel subsidies, unstable exchange rates, and weak infrastructure. Today, we are witnessing a turnaround: the naira is strengthening, foreign reserves are rising, and our economic outlook is positive despite the inflationary disruption caused by the war in Iran and the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East.
“We have strengthened macroeconomic stability through improved revenue performance, financial management, and better fiscal coordination.
“We have prioritised infrastructure across transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation as engines for inclusive growth. We are building concrete, durable roads and superhighways along the coast and on the Sokoto–Badagry route that will last for over 100 years.
“We are improving our airports and seaports after decades of neglect. We have reformed the oil and gas sector and are attracting billions of dollars in fresh investment in a sector that was almost comatose.
“Our social investment and human capital programmes target vulnerable households, youth, women, and small businesses. In addition, we are reclaiming our national values and ethos anchored on unity and the unbroken bond of togetherness.
“While our founding and now revived national anthem recognises our diversity, it reminds us of the work we need to do to forge a stronger and more perfect union. Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand. As Nigerians, we must continue to stand together for our country against all forces that seek to divide us.”
He noted that despite his administration’s efforts, challenges remain. “Many Nigerians still struggle with rising costs and economic adjustment. We do not dismiss these concerns; we understand them and govern not in comfort but in reality — with honesty and action,” he said.
Tinubu acknowledged the security challenges still confronting parts of the country and assured that he would take seriously the responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of every Nigerian.
“Our government has intensified efforts to strengthen our security architecture, support our brave armed forces and the police, and forge stronger partnerships with local communities.
“We have invested in intelligence, surveillance, and modern equipment, and we are addressing the root causes of insecurity. We also expect the National Assembly to amend the Constitution to allow the creation of state police as a matter of national emergency.
“We will not rest until we restore peace and stability to every corner of our country. Our resolve is unwavering, and our goal is clear: a Nigeria where every citizen can live, work, and aspire without fear.
“As leaders and members of this great party, we should all be proud of what we have achieved for our country since our party took over governance in 2015, and of the outstanding economic progress we have recorded in the last three years of my administration. However, the work we began is unfinished.
“In accepting this nomination, I renew my commitment to serve our nation with even greater determination.
“With another four years of disciplined focus and national cooperation, we will firmly place Nigeria on an irreversible path of economic expansion, industrialisation, energy security, infrastructure development, food sufficiency, and democratic consolidation.”
He added: “Our mission remains clear: to build a Nigeria where every life, including property, is secure; where enterprise thrives; where workers earn with dignity; where young people find opportunity; and where farmers prosper. And where every Nigerian, regardless of background, can dream big and succeed.”
