President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has challenged opposition politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakarand former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, to focus on issues and policies as Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election campaign begins.
Tinubu made the call in his remarks following the signing of a peace accord by political parties and presidential candidates ahead of the election. He urged politicians to campaign on what he described as superior ideas rather than personal attacks and divisive rhetoric.
Tinubu calls for issue-based campaigns
The President said the election should provide an opportunity for Nigerians to compare the policies and programmes of the different candidates.
He challenged the opposition to explain how they intend to improve the country’s economy, create opportunities for citizens and address Nigeria’s security challenges.
The call comes as political activities intensify following the official commencement of presidential and National Assembly campaigns on August 19, 2026. The campaigns are expected to continue until January 15, 2027, one day before the presidential election.
Opposition prepares for the contest
Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi are among the leading opposition figures challenging Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Atiku, who is contesting under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has already begun presenting his own policy proposals. One of his latest promises is to restore the petrol subsidy if he wins the 2027 election. He has argued that the policy could help reduce the financial pressure on Nigerians.
Obi, meanwhile, remains an important figure within the opposition movement, although discussions continue over how opposition parties and candidates can work together to present a stronger challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Economy remains a major campaign issue
Nigeria’s economy is expected to be one of the most important issues in the election.
Tinubu’s administration has defended its economic reforms, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign-exchange system.
The government argues that the reforms have helped improve government finances, strengthen foreign reserves and attract investment. However, the policies have also contributed to significant economic pressure on households, with the high cost of living remaining a major concern for many Nigerians.
The opposition has criticised the administration over the impact of these reforms and is expected to make the economy a major part of its campaign message.
Security also remains a key concern
Beyond the economy, insecurity is another major issue likely to dominate the 2027 election.
Nigeria continues to face challenges involving terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime. The opposition is expected to question the government’s handling of security, while the ruling party will likely highlight measures it says have improved the country’s security situation.
With millions of Nigerians expected to vote, the candidates will need to convince voters that their policies can improve everyday life.
Peace accord signed
The latest political debate follows a peace accord signed in Abuja by President Tinubu and several presidential candidates and political parties.
The agreement commits participants to peaceful and issue-based campaigns and discourages electoral violence before, during and after the election. Atiku was notably absent from the signing ceremony.
The peace agreement is intended to reduce tensions as political activities increase across the country.
What to expect ahead of 2027
With the campaign season now officially underway, Nigerians are expected to hear more detailed policy proposals from Tinubu, Atiku, Obi and other candidates.
The major issues are likely to include the cost of living, fuel prices, unemployment, security, education, healthcare, corruption and economic growth.
Tinubu’s challenge for an issue-based debate could therefore set the tone for an increasingly competitive campaign. The coming months will show whether the major candidates can keep the focus on policies and solutions rather than political attacks.
