2027: Tinubu vows not to let opposing forces with vague agendas undermine Nigeria's progress

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to be cautious of politicians who lack a clear vision, warning that they could hinder the country's progress and take it backward.

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President Tinubu made this statement on Sunday, when he received the Certificate of Return and the flag of the All Progressives Congress as the party's candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

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He expressed his commitment to consolidating the reforms his administration has implemented, working tirelessly to achieve the prosperity Nigerians have long desired, and placing the country on an irreversible path of growth within the next four years.

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President Tinubu commended his opponent, Stanley Osifo, for his sportsmanship in accepting the outcome of the party primaries, and stated that he holds no grudge against him.

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He also expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with critics and opponents of his administration, emphasizing the importance of diverse ideas and perspectives in a democratic society.

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Addressing party leaders and supporters at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, President Tinubu noted that democracy is built on diversity of thought, not uniformity, and that his administration is committed to listening to and engaging with all stakeholders.

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He stated, "To those who despise our philosophy, we offer dialogue and engagement, not anger, confident that the sincerity of our purpose and the results of our work will speak for themselves."

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President Tinubu directly addressed his challenger, Stanley Osifo, saying, "I owe you no grudge, including Osifo, who spent his money," referring to the N100m Osifo paid for the APC presidential nomination form.

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Osifo, a businessman from Edo State, had refused to step down after a planned consensus arrangement for the primary collapsed, and ultimately polled 16,503 votes nationwide.

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President Tinubu emphasized that disagreement with the opposition is a natural aspect of democracy, rather than a threat, and that his administration is committed to engaging with critics and opponents in a constructive manner.

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He described the event as a celebration of another milestone in the country's democratic journey, one that is defined by the collective resolve to build a stable, prosperous, and just nation.

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President Tinubu reflected on his journey, from standing as an aspirant four years ago to becoming the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and expressed his gratitude to the party and the people for their support.

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He stated, "Today, I return as your incumbent President — humbled by your enduring support, encouraged by your continued confidence, and imbued with renewed passion for the tasks ahead."

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President Tinubu emphasized the importance of continuity, saying, "In 2022, our task was to chart a new direction for our party and nation. Today, our task is to affirm that continuity is essential — to consolidate reform, secure progress, and strengthen the foundation of a modern Nigeria."

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He accepted the nomination of the All Progressives Congress to stand as its presidential candidate in the 2027 election, and thanked the party leadership, governors, and members for their support.

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President Tinubu also acknowledged the sacrifices and support of Nigerians from all walks of life who believe in the path of reform his administration has chosen to rebuild the nation.

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He noted that since taking office, the political landscape has evolved, electoral reforms have strengthened the democratic process, and the economy has undergone significant structural reform, with new tax laws and fiscal policies boosting revenue collection.

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The President highlighted some of his administration's achievements, including the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which has disbursed over N282 billion to more than 1.5 million beneficiaries.

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He also mentioned the Presidential Metering Initiative, which has supplied 2.5 million meters, closing the metering gap and improving power supply.

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President Tinubu stated that his administration has moved away from wasteful fuel subsidies, unstable exchange rates, and weak infrastructure, and is now witnessing a turnaround, with the naira strengthening, foreign reserves rising, and a positive economic outlook.

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He emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, including transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation, as engines for inclusive growth.

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President Tinubu noted that his administration has prioritized social investment and human capital programs, targeting vulnerable households, youth, women, and small businesses, and is reclaiming national values and ethos anchored on unity and togetherness.

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He acknowledged that despite his administration's efforts, challenges remain, including rising costs and economic adjustment, and assured that his government understands these concerns and is governing with honesty and action.

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President Tinubu recognized the security challenges still confronting parts of the country and pledged to take seriously the responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of every Nigerian.

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He stated that his government has intensified efforts to strengthen the security architecture, support the armed forces and police, and forge stronger partnerships with local communities.

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President Tinubu emphasized the need for the National Assembly to amend the Constitution to allow for the creation of state police as a matter of national emergency.

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He reiterated his administration's commitment to restoring peace and stability to every corner of the country, and to building a Nigeria where every citizen can live, work, and aspire without fear.

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President Tinubu expressed pride in what his party has achieved for the country since taking over governance in 2015, and in the economic progress recorded in the last three years of his administration.

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He acknowledged that the work begun is unfinished and, in accepting the nomination, renewed his commitment to serve the nation with even greater determination.

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President Tinubu stated that with another four years of disciplined focus and national cooperation, his administration will firmly place Nigeria on an irreversible path of economic expansion, industrialization, energy security, infrastructure development, food sufficiency, and democratic consolidation.

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He emphasized that his 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.

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President Tinubu extended a hand of partnership in nation-building to those who may disagree with his administration politically, and offered dialogue and engagement to those who differ with his philosophy.

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He reiterated that democracy is sustained not by uniformity but by diversity, and that his administration is committed to listening to and engaging with all stakeholders.

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President Tinubu urged Nigerians to come together to consolidate gains, tackle challenges, and seize the promise of a greater tomorrow, emphasizing that the task ahead requires patriotism and collective effort.

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He advised Nigerians not to gamble with the forthcoming election, saying, "This next election must not merely be a contest of parties or ideas, but a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s democratic maturity."

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President Tinubu warned against complacency, saying, "Let’s not give in to complacency by allowing politicians with no clear alternative vision to take our country backward."

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He accepted the nomination with a renewed resolve to serve the people, and thanked all party members for bestowing on him the honor of being their torchbearer and candidate in the January 2027 election.

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President Tinubu pledged to build a more secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria for generations to come, and to establish an even more inclusive government that listens, learns, and leads with the best interests of all Nigerians at heart.