2027: TINUBU TO MAKE SELECTIVE CAMPAIGN APPEARANCES, NOT VISIT EVERY STATE

President Bola Tinubu has revealed that he will not campaign in every state for the 2027 presidential election, citing the responsibilities of his office and explaining that governance cannot pause for politicking.

The Tinubu campaign every state 2027 disclosure came as the President outlined a campaign strategy that prioritises selective appearances while maintaining direct communication with Nigerians.

THE STATEMENT

In a video message, Tinubu addressed his approach to the 2027 campaign, acknowledging the expectations that he would traverse the country as candidates traditionally do.

“You will excuse me from going everywhere with you. However, I will still make room to talk to Nigerians directly,” he said.

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He explained the rationale behind the decision. “The responsibility of this office does not pause, and we have bills to pay.”

The statement reflects a recognition that the demands of the presidency, security, economic management, international engagements, cannot be set aside for the duration of a campaign.

THE CONTEXT

Tinubu’s decision comes amid reports that APC governors have been seeking to limit his campaign appearances for strategic reasons.

According to reports, the governors plan to present a template under which they would lead rallies, grassroots mobilisation and other public-facing activities, while Tinubu makes selective appearances at politically strategic events.

The proposal reflects concerns over the President’s standing in parts of the North, South-South and South-East, as well as the risks associated with repeated appearances before large crowds.

Under the proposed arrangement, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, would play a coordinating role, with Tinubu likely reserved for the campaign grand finale.

Sources said the governors believe a “controlled deployment” would protect Tinubu from the physical demands and potential controversies of the campaign while allowing them to use their local structures to strengthen the party nationwide.

THE IMPLICATION

Tinubu’s decision to limit his campaign appearances represents a departure from the traditional Nigerian campaign model, in which presidential candidates crisscross the country, attending rallies in every state.

It also places greater responsibility on governors, ministers, and party leaders to mobilise support at the grassroots level.

For the APC, the strategy carries both risks and opportunities. Limiting the President’s exposure could shield him from potentially damaging public appearances, but it also means that the campaign will depend heavily on the ability of state-level leaders to deliver their territories.

WHY IT MATTERS

The 2027 election will be contested in an environment of economic hardship and political uncertainty.

Tinubu’s decision to focus on governance rather than an exhaustive campaign schedule reflects a recognition that the President’s record, and the public’s perception of it, will be the central issue.

Whether this strategy succeeds will depend on whether Nigerians judge the administration’s performance favourably and whether the APC’s state-level machinery can deliver the votes.

ValidViewNetwork reports that Tinubu will not campaign in every state. The 2027 election is scheduled for January and February 2027.