Significant progress has already been made in putting in place the philosophical, organisational and operational framework required to drive the Movement
By Moses Okorie
As political activities ahead of the 2027 presidential election intensify, a coalition of prominent Nigerians backing the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima has commenced preparations for a nationwide mobilisation campaign.
The group, operating under the banner of National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 — Forward Nigeria, said it would soon begin a structured programme of consultations, organisation and grassroots mobilisation across the country.
This was disclosed in a statement jointly signed by members of the Movement’s Interim National Coordinating Committee, led by Prof. Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, National Coordinator; Dr. Bassey Rekpene, National Coordinating Secretary; and Ardo Zubairu, National Media Coordinator.
The coordinators said the Movement was established to provide a broad-based platform for Nigerians who support the Tinubu–Shettima ticket and wish to participate actively in the political process ahead of the 2027 elections.
They stressed that the initiative was not intended to be merely another political support group but a structured national platform through which citizens could contribute responsibly to discussions on Nigeria’s political future.
The Interim Committee explained that although September 1, 2026, had initially been considered for the formal unveiling of the Movement, additional consultations and organisational arrangements had led to a slight adjustment.
It said a new date for the official commencement of activities would be announced soon.
According to the committee, significant progress has already been made in putting in place the philosophical, organisational and operational framework required to drive the Movement.
It disclosed that a Mandate Document had been developed as the organisation’s foundational blueprint, outlining its philosophy, objectives, structure and strategic direction.
The Movement has also prepared a National Covenant, which sets out its position on the 2027 elections and the reasons behind its support for the re-election of Tinubu and Shettima on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The coordinators said their support was based on the belief that the 2027 presidential election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to assess the country’s progress and compare competing visions for its future.
They identified economic transformation, national security, political stability, national cohesion and sustainable development as key issues that should shape the electoral conversation.
“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,” the committee stated.
The group further announced that a comprehensive Programme of Action had been developed to guide its nationwide consultations, stakeholder engagements, public communication and grassroots mobilisation.
It added that efforts were also underway to strengthen its communication and administrative structures, including its website, email platforms, WhatsApp channels and dedicated telephone lines.
The Movement said consultations with prospective members and stakeholders across Nigeria and in the diaspora had already begun, with participants being assessed based on their commitment, areas of competence and willingness to contribute to the project.
“The response has been encouraging,” the committee said.
It explained that following the formal launch, a structured mobilisation programme would be rolled out to establish the Movement’s presence across states, local government areas and communities.
The committee urged supporters to begin strengthening their networks, engaging their communities and identifying areas where they could contribute to the campaign.
It emphasised that political success requires more than enthusiasm, noting that effective organisation, communication, mobilisation, commitment and responsible civic participation would be critical to the 2027 campaign.
The Movement reaffirmed its objective of building a disciplined, credible and nationally representative support base for the Tinubu–Shettima 2027 project.
It invited Nigerians who believe in continuity, stability, development, national unity and progressive governance to join the emerging mobilisation effort.