2027: Tinubu Promises to End Hunger, Poverty as Atiku Challenges His Economic Record
2027: Tinubu Promises to End Hunger, Poverty as Atiku Challenges His Economic Record
By Akin Alade
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed the battle against hunger, poverty and economic hardship at the centre of his 2027 re-election campaign, declaring that his administration is determined to reverse years of economic difficulties and create lasting prosperity for Nigerians.
Speaking at the official flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign at Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna, Tinubu maintained that the country’s economic problems were inherited from previous administrations, accusing political opponents of contributing to the poverty and hardship they now criticise.
The President, who appealed to Nigerians for another four-year mandate, insisted that his administration had embarked on difficult but necessary economic reforms aimed at restoring financial stability, strengthening infrastructure, creating employment opportunities and improving living standards. He expressed confidence that the government’s policies would eventually produce greater economic benefits for ordinary citizens.
Tinubu challenged opposition politicians over their criticism of the country’s economic situation, arguing that many of those attacking his administration had previously occupied positions of authority. He maintained that his government was working to address longstanding economic challenges rather than merely managing their consequences.
The President also defended his administration’s decision to remove petrol subsidies, describing the policy as part of broader efforts to eliminate corruption, reduce economic distortions and redirect public resources towards national development. He urged Nigerians to remain patient with the reform programme, promising that continued implementation would support economic recovery and greater opportunities.
Addressing supporters at the Kaduna rally, Tinubu thanked voters for the confidence they demonstrated during the 2023 presidential election and appealed for renewed support in 2027. He encouraged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that participation in the electoral process would determine the country’s future leadership and development direction.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who also addressed the gathering, defended Tinubu’s political relationship with northern Nigeria, recalling his support for prominent northern politicians, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former presidential candidate Nuhu Ribadu. Shettima argued that the President’s longstanding political alliances demonstrated his commitment to national unity and inclusive leadership.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani equally expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting ongoing infrastructure and security interventions in the state. He particularly referenced the reconstruction of the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road, saying the project reflected the administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and improving economic activities in previously troubled communities.
However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar rejected Tinubu’s attempt to blame previous administrations and opposition politicians for Nigeria’s economic difficulties. Through his campaign organisation, Atiku argued that the President must accept responsibility for the consequences of policies introduced since assuming office in May 2023, particularly their impact on food prices, transportation costs and household purchasing power.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council also criticised the Kaduna campaign event, accusing the ruling party of recycling political promises without adequately addressing the hardship experienced by Nigerians. The opposition challenged Tinubu to demonstrate how his economic reforms had translated into measurable improvements in employment, food affordability, business opportunities and the general welfare of citizens.
Similarly, the Makinde-Daura Presidential Campaign Organisation described the APC campaign flag-off as a political spectacle that failed to address pressing concerns about insecurity, poverty and economic difficulties, particularly in northern Nigeria. The organisation questioned the administration’s performance and urged the President to provide clearer evidence of progress in tackling the country’s challenges.
The disagreement has introduced another major dimension to the approaching 2027 presidential contest, with economic performance increasingly emerging as a central campaign issue. While the APC is presenting Tinubu’s reforms as the foundation for future prosperity, opposition parties insist that Nigerians should judge the administration by their everyday experiences rather than promises of long-term economic recovery.
For millions of Nigerians struggling with the cost of food, transportation, housing and other essential services, the critical issue remains whether government policies can deliver practical improvements in living conditions. The success of Tinubu’s economic agenda will therefore depend not only on official growth figures and policy announcements but also on the extent to which households experience greater financial stability.
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tinubu’s pledge to eradicate inherited hunger and poverty is expected to face increasing scrutiny from opposition candidates and voters. Ultimately, the President’s re-election campaign may be judged by how convincingly his administration can demonstrate that its economic reforms are producing affordable food, sustainable jobs, improved security and meaningful prosperity for Nigerians.
