A senior figure within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on supporters of President Bola Tinubu to refocus their political narrative toward the 2027 general elections, noting that the current administration’s term is nearing its conclusion.
Prince Emmanuel Odigie, an APC chieftain, made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday. His comments followed President Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
Odigie described the presidential trip as a positive diplomatic step. He expressed hope that the visit would strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and the UK and ultimately lead to tangible economic benefits, particularly through the attraction of foreign investment.
He stressed that foreign engagements must move beyond ceremonial activities. Odigie argued that memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and agreements signed during such trips must be promptly implemented, warning against the practice of signing documents that are subsequently neglected.
“We want to see MoUs signed and work, they should hit the ground running right away,” Odigie stated. “Not just have an agreement, come back home and dump the agreement on the shelf.”
Turning to the political timetable, Odigie contended that the administration must now clearly articulate its record and make a compelling case for a second term. He suggested that the popular refrain among supporters, “On Your Mandate We Stand,” should evolve as the 2023 mandate expires.
“The mandate that was given in 2023 is almost expiring,” he said. “So we want to hear more about how, what has been done, and why Nigerians should renew his mandate. Mandate renewal is what we want to hear.”
The chieftain’s intervention highlights emerging internal discussions within the APC regarding post-2023 strategy. As President Tinubu’s first term progresses, the party is expected to intensify efforts to communicate its policy achievements and build a persuasive narrative for the 2027 polls, while navigating economic challenges and public sentiment. Odigie’s remarks underscore the perceived urgency for the government to demonstrate concrete results from its foreign policy and domestic governance to bolster its re-election prospects.
