By Mike Odiakose in Abuja
As the campaign for the 2027 Presidential election gathers full momentum, a group of prominent Nigerians in support of President Bola Tinubu’s reelection operating
under the auspices of the “National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 — Forward Nigeria” has announced the commencement of preparations for its nationwide programme of consultations, organisation and mobilisation.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by members of the Movement’s Interim National Coordinating Committee led by Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, National Coordinator; Dr. Bassey Rekpene, National Coordinating Secretary; and Ardo Zubairu, National Media Coordinator.
The Committee stated the Mivement is not conceived merely as another political support platform.
“It is intended to provide a credible national vehicle through which Nigerians who share this vision can participate actively, responsibly and constructively in shaping the country’s political future.”
The Committee disclosed that although Tuesday, 1 September 2026 was initially contemplated for the Movement’s formal public unveiling, further consultations and organisational considerations necessitated a slight adjustment. A definitive date for the formal commencement will be announced shortly.
According to the Interim leadership of the National Movement, substantial progress has already been made in establishing the philosophical, organisational and operational foundations of the Movement.
Among the principal documents developed is the Mandate Document, which serves as the Movement’s foundational framework, defining its philosophy, objectives, organisational architecture and strategic direction.
The Movement has also developed a National Covenant, setting out its position on the 2027 General Elections and the considerations underpinning its support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima under the platform of the All Progreesives Congress (APC).
The Interim leadership stated that the Movement’s support is anchored on the conviction that the 2027 elections represent an important moment in Nigeria’s continuing pursuit of 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.”
The National Coordinating Committee, disclosed that a comprehensive Programme of Action has equally been developed to guide the Movement’s consultations, stakeholder engagement, public communication, grassroots mobilisation and interaction with citizens nationwide.
The Committee added that the Movement’s communication and administrative infrastructure is being strengthened, including its official website, email platforms, WhatsApp channels and dedicated telephone lines.
According to the Coordinating Committee, engagements with stakeholders and members across the federation, including the diaspora has 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.”
Following its formal commencement, the Movement will roll out a structured national mobilisation programme aimed at establishing a credible presence across states, local governments and communities.
The Interim National Coordinating Committee, stated that details of forthcoming programmes, including dates, venues and participation arrangements, will be communicated through the Movement’s official channels as preparations are concluded.
They emphasised that effective political participation requires organisation beyond enthusiasm.
“Elections are not won by enthusiasm alone. Organisation, communication, mobilisation, commitment and responsible civic participation remain indispensable.”
The Interim National Coordinating Committee therefore called on members and supporters to strengthen their networks, deepen community engagement, identify areas in which they can contribute effectively and prepare for the responsibilities of the emerging political season.
The Movement reaffirmed that its central objective is to build a broad-based, disciplined, credible and nationally representative platform of support for the Tinubu–Shettima 2027 project, within the larger vision of a stronger, more prosperous, secure, stable and forward-looking Nigeria.
The Committee stated: “The National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 — Forward Nigeria is not conceived merely as another political support platform. It is intended to provide a credible national vehicle through which Nigerians who share this vision can participate actively, responsibly and constructively in shaping the country’s political future.”
The Movement consequently invites Nigerians who believe in continuity, stability, development, national cohesion and progressive governance to identify with the emerging national mobilisation.
