The Presidency has stressed that the focus of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima remains squarely on driving Nigeria’s economic recovery and enhancing national security, rather than engaging in premature campaigning for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the government responded to the emergence of 2027 campaign billboards and materials, particularly in cities like Abuja and Kano. The statement clarified that neither President Tinubu nor Vice President Shettima has authorised any such campaign efforts, asserting that their attention is firmly set on the current national challenges.
The billboards, which feature images of President Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, have sparked controversy, with political groups looking ahead to the next elections despite the fact that the 2027 polls are still over two years away and no official election timetable has been released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“The President and Vice President are committed to the ongoing work of nation-building, which includes focusing on economic revitalisation, improving human capital, strengthening national security, and advancing infrastructure projects,” said Onanuga.
“We do not support actions that undermine the electoral process or the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.”
The Presidency also made it clear that any premature campaigns or political advertisements violate the Electoral Act, which prohibits political activity before the election calendar has been set by INEC.
Furthermore, the statement acknowledged the unwavering support of Nigerians but urged all involved in these unauthorised campaigns to cease their activities immediately.
“We appreciate the enthusiasm of our supporters,” the statement continued, “but it is essential that our focus remains on governance and fulfilling the promises of this administration.”
The Presidency concluded by reiterating that once INEC announces the official timeline for the 2027 elections, President Tinubu will communicate his intentions to the public in due course. Until that time, the government’s priorities will remain fixed on the immediate task of securing the nation’s future.