By Mike Odiakose, Abuja
Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, a group of prominent Nigerians backing the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima has commenced preparations for nationwide consultations, organisation and mobilisation.
The group, operating under the auspices of the National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 — Forward Nigeria, disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by members of its Interim National Coordinating Committee.
The statement was signed by Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, National Coordinator; Dr Bassey Rekpene, National Coordinating Secretary; and Ardo Zubairu, National Media Coordinator.
The group said the movement was not established merely as another political support platform, but as a vehicle for Nigerians who share its vision to participate actively and responsibly in shaping the country’s political future.
It explained that although September 1, 2026, was initially considered for its formal public unveiling, further consultations and organisational considerations had necessitated a slight adjustment, with a new date to be announced shortly.
According to the interim leadership, significant progress has already been made in laying the philosophical, organisational and operational foundations of the movement.
It said a Mandate Document, which serves as the movement’s foundational framework, had been developed to define its philosophy, objectives, organisational structure and strategic direction.
The movement has also produced a National Covenant, outlining its position on the 2027 general elections and the reasons for its support for the re-election of Tinubu and Shettima on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The group said its support was based on the conviction that the 2027 election would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the progress recorded in economic transformation, national security, political stability and sustainable development.
“The 2027 election must go beyond personal issues and propaganda. It should provide Nigerians an opportunity to assess competing visions, evaluate national progress and make informed choices about the leadership and policies best suited to advancing the country’s interests,” it said.
It added that a comprehensive Programme of Action had also been developed to guide consultations, stakeholder engagement, public communication, grassroots mobilisation and interaction with citizens across the country.
The movement further disclosed that efforts were underway to strengthen its communication and administrative infrastructure, including its official website, email platforms, WhatsApp channels and dedicated telephone lines.
It said consultations with stakeholders and members across the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and the diaspora had already commenced.
“We are engaging members nationwide and beyond to establish their level of commitment, identify areas of competence and interest, and determine the responsibilities they are prepared to undertake. The response has been encouraging,” the statement said.
The movement said it would, following its formal commencement, roll out a structured national mobilisation programme aimed at establishing its presence across states, local government areas and communities.
It urged supporters to strengthen their networks, deepen community engagement and identify areas where they could contribute to the emerging political project.
“Elections are not won by enthusiasm alone. Organisation, communication, mobilisation, commitment and responsible civic participation remain indispensable,” it stated.
The group reaffirmed its objective of building a broad-based, disciplined, credible and nationally representative platform in support of the Tinubu-Shettima 2027 project.
