Tinubu regime: Scorecard and Road to 2027 Election

Column, DNEWSINFO  : President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has entered its second full year in office, with public attention increasingly focused on the government’s policy  performance, socio- economic lmpact, and long-term governance out look ahead of the 2027 general election

As Nigerians continue to navigate through economic and security challenges, the broader national conversation is shifting toward assessing whether the administration’s reforms are laying a foundation for sustainable progress or facing critical tests that require urgent recalibration.

President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 as Nigeria’s 16th president under the platform of the All Progressives Congress. His campaign was anchored on a vision of “Renewed Hope,” promising economic revitalization, fiscal discipline, infrastructure expansion, and inclusive governance. Upon taking office, the administration embarked on a number of bold reforms, two of the most significant being the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of Nigeria’s multiple foreign exchange rates. These moves were praised by international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, as steps in the right direction toward improving fiscal transparency and strengthening the country’s macroeconomic framework.

However, on the domestic front, the immediate impact of these reforms has presented serious challenges for many Nigerians. The subsidy removal, while aimed at redirecting funds toward capital investment and social programs, led to a sharp rise in fuel prices and a consequent spike in the cost of transportation, food, and essential goods. Similarly, the floating of the naira introduced greater volatility into the foreign exchange market, with ripple effects on import-dependent sectors and general purchasing power. These developments have contributed to rising inflation, now a top concern among households and small businesses, especially in urban and low-income communities.

Despite these economic pressures, the administration has introduced various measures aimed at mitigating the impact on citizens. Key among them are youth-focused initiatives aimed at job creation, skill development, and entrepreneurship. Programs under the Ministry of Youth Development and various federal agencies have continued to receive budgetary support, with the aim of expanding economic participation and reducing unemployment. Additionally, efforts have been made to strengthen the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector, which plays a significant role in Nigeria’s domestic economy.

Security remains a crucial dimension of President Tinubu’s governance challenge. The government has intensified funding for the country’s security architecture, with renewed focus on combating insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and violent clashes in the North-Central regions. While security forces have recorded progress in dismantling some criminal networks and recovering territories in conflict zones, concerns persist among citizens regarding isolated attacks, kidnappings, and the need for more visible community-level protection. Public perception around security is mixed, with many citizens acknowledging ongoing efforts while also calling for more effective results and accountability.

The evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections is shaping the way stakeholders interpret the current administration’s policy direction. With just under two years to the next electoral cycle, analysts and citizens alike are beginning to evaluate the Tinubu administration’s trajectory in terms of continuity, reform depth, and responsiveness to public expectations. Political observers note that future electoral prospects will depend not only on party alliances and campaign strategies but also on the real-time experiences of Nigerians in terms of living standards, access to opportunities, and public confidence in national leadership.

Looking ahead, the administration faces a unique opportunity to consolidate its reforms and address lingering gaps. As policy momentum continues, areas such as energy efficiency, improved subsidy targeting, infrastructural development, and job creation are likely to remain central to the national discourse. Moreover, greater emphasis on social protection mechanisms and local governance engagement may help in restoring public faith and building resilience at the grassroots level. Governance outcomes over the next 24 months will be critical in defining how the electorate views the presidency’s legacy and its alignment with the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians.

In conclusion, the Tinubu administration’s scorecard reflects a blend of ambition, reform, and complexity. While bold economic decisions have been taken, their full impact remains a subject of national reflection and ongoing implementation. With inflation and insecurity posing significant tests, the government’s capacity to deliver inclusive growth, deepen public trust, and stabilize the economy will likely shape both its legacy and the outcome of the 2027 general elections. The coming months present an important window to recalibrate, engage constructively, and sustain progress in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Edited and Compiled by Jimoh Quadri Babatunde   | June 24, 2025