2027: Nigerians Must Choose Wisely
As Nigeria gradually moves toward the 2027 general election, one question stands before every voter: Who has the experience, vision and proven record to lead the country?
The race for the Presidency is becoming increasingly competitive, with several experienced politicians seeking the nation’s highest office. Some have served as governors, other as vice president, while one is already serving as President. Each has had an opportunity to lead and each has left behind a record that Nigerians can examine.
Beyond campaign promises, Nigerians have a responsibility to ask important questions. Are these politicians seeking the presidency to complete unfinished reforms, to build on past achievements, or simply to acquire political power? The answers lie not in speeches alone, but in their records of public service.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Governor of Lagos State (1999–2007)
President of Nigeria (2023–Present)
As Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is widely credited with laying the foundation for the state’s modern financial and administrative system.
His administration expanded Lagos State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), reducing dependence on federal allocations. He also reformed tax administration, embarked on road construction and urban renewal projects, strengthened healthcare and education infrastructure, created new ministries and agencies, and improved local government administration.
As President, his administration has introduced major economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, foreign exchange market liberalisation, the Student Loan Scheme, the Consumer Credit Scheme, tax reforms, infrastructure projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda and the approval of a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000.
Supporters argue these reforms are necessary for long-term economic stability, while critics point to the rising cost of living, inflation and economic hardship experienced by many Nigerians.
Atiku Abubakar
Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007)
Atiku Abubakar served as Nigeria’s Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007.
As Chairman of the National Economic Council, he played a significant role in implementing several economic reforms, including the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector, banking reforms, pension reforms and the privatisation of government-owned enterprises. The administration also pursued policies aimed at encouraging private-sector investment and economic growth.
Supporters believe those reforms modernised Nigeria’s economy, while critics continue to question aspects of the privatisation programme and the political disagreements that emerged during the administration.
Peter Obi
Governor of Anambra State (2006–2014)
Peter Obi served as Governor of Anambra State for eight years and built a reputation around prudent financial management.
His administration focused on fiscal discipline, reducing state debt while leaving office with significant government savings and investments. He invested in education by supporting mission schools, expanded healthcare services, executed road projects and worked to improve internally generated revenue and attract investment into the state.
Supporters describe his administration as transparent, accountable and financially responsible, while critics argue that infrastructure development could have been more extensive in some sectors.
Leadership Beyond Campaigns
Each of these political leaders has governed at different levels and under different circumstances. Their achievements and shortcomings are matters of public record.
As the 2027 election approaches, Nigerians have an opportunity to look beyond campaign slogans and political affiliations. Leadership should not be judged only by promises made during campaigns, but by what has already been achieved in public office.
The question every voter should ask is simple:
Which candidate has demonstrated the competence, integrity, vision and capacity to address Nigeria’s economic, security and developmental challenges?
Ultimately, the decision belongs to Nigerians. Democracy places the power of leadership in the hands of the people, and that power should be exercised wisely, based on facts, performance and the nation’s best interest—not on sentiment, ethnicity, religion or political propaganda.
2027: Nigerians Must Choose Wisely