Nigeria’s election campaign begins with Tinubu facing a reform test

Nigeria’s 2027 Election: Tinubu Faces Growing Pressure Over Economy and Insecurity By Senanga For Us Published: 20 August 2026

Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is already taking shape, with President Bola Tinubu facing growing public concern over the rising cost of living, insecurity and the impact of his economic reforms. Since taking office in 2023, Tinubu has introduced major economic changes, including the removal of the fuel subsidy and reforms to the foreign-exchange system. The government has argued that these measures are necessary to strengthen Nigeria’s economy, attract investment and improve the country’s long-term financial position. However, many ordinary Nigerians say the immediate effects have been difficult to endure. Rising Cost of Living Food, transport and household goods have become increasingly expensive, putting pressure on families and small businesses. Small business owners say customers are buying fewer products as their incomes struggle to keep up with rising prices. For many households, everyday expenses have become a major concern. The government has pointed to improvements in some economic indicators as evidence that its reforms are beginning to produce results. However, critics argue that economic statistics mean little to families who are struggling to afford food, transport and other basic needs. This difference between government economic figures and people's daily experiences could become a major issue during the 2027 campaign. Insecurity Remains a Major Concern Economic hardship is not the only challenge facing the government. Nigeria continues to experience insecurity in several parts of the country, including attacks, kidnappings, banditry and other forms of violence. For many citizens, concerns about safety could strongly influence how they vote in 2027. Opposition parties are expected to use the security situation as one of their major campaign issues, arguing that the government needs to do more to protect citizens and communities. Opposition Faces the Challenge of Unity Tinubu may also benefit from divisions among opposition parties. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi remain among the prominent figures associated with the opposition. However, efforts to unite the opposition behind a single presidential candidate have faced difficulties. Analysts say a divided opposition could make it easier for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to retain power, even if there is widespread dissatisfaction with the government. The ability of opposition parties to agree on a strong candidate could therefore become one of the most important factors in the 2027 election. APC’s Organisational Advantage The ruling APC also has an advantage through its nationwide political structures. As the party controlling the federal government, the APC has an extensive grassroots network that could help with mobilisation during the election campaign. This means the 2027 election may not simply be a referendum on Tinubu's performance. It could also depend on whether opposition parties can present voters with a united and convincing alternative. What Voters Will Be Watching For ordinary Nigerians, the most important question may be whether their lives improve before election day. Voters are likely to pay close attention to the cost of food, fuel and transportation, employment opportunities, household income and the security situation. The election could ultimately become a contest between the government's argument that its reforms need more time and opposition calls for a change in leadership. With the 2027 presidential election approaching, Nigeria's political landscape is expected to become increasingly competitive as parties prepare their campaigns and voters consider which direction they want the country to take. Senanga For Us will continue to follow major political and economic developments across Africa and provide updates that matter to our readers.