By Emmanuel Oloniruha
A political movement, National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 — Forward Nigeria, says the 2027 elections represent an important moment in Nigeria’s continued pursuit of economic transformation, national security, political stability and sustainable development.
The Interim National Coordinating Committee of the movement stated this in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the statement was jointly signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Prof. Rufa’i Alkali, National Coordinating Secretary, Dr Bassey Rekpene, and National Media Coordinator, Ardo Zubairu.
The support group rooting for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima on the platform of All Progreesives Congress (APC) said that the 2027 elections must go beyond personal issues and propaganda.
The movement said that it’s support for Tinubu and Shettima was anchored on the conviction for continuity in pursuit of economic transformation, national security, political stability and sustainable development.
“It should provide Nigerians an opportunity to assess competing visions, evaluate national progress and make informed choices about the leadership and policies best suited for advancing the country’s interests,’’ it stated.
The group disclosed that it had already developed a “National Covenant,” setting out its position on the 2027 general elections and the considerations underpinning its support for Tinubu and Shettima’s re-election.
According to the movement, substantial progress has also been made in establishing its philosophical, organisational and operational foundations.
It listed the “mandate document” which serves as the Movement’s foundational framework, defining its philosophy, objectives, organisational architecture and strategic direction, among the principal documents already developed.
On the commencement of preparations for its nationwide programme of consultations, organisation and mobilisation, the group said although Sept. 1 was initially contemplated for its formal public unveiling, further consultations and organisational considerations had necessitated a slight adjustment.
It stated that a definitive date for the formal commencement would be announced shortly.
The movement also said that a comprehensive programme of action had been developed to guide the it’s consultations, stakeholder engagement, public communication, grassroots mobilisation and interactions with citizens nationwide
It added that the it’s communication and administrative infrastructure was being strengthened, including its official website, email platforms, WhatsApp channels and dedicated telephone lines.
The group further stated that engagements with stakeholders and members across the federation, including the diaspora, had 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,” it said.
The group disclosed that it would soon roll out a structured national mobilisation programme aimed at establishing a credible presence across states, local governments and communities.
It added that details of the forthcoming programmes, including dates, venues and participation arrangements, would be communicated through it’s official channels as preparations were concluded.
The movement, while emphasising the need for effective political participation by members, noted that achieving its objectives required more than enthusiasm.
“Elections are not won by enthusiasm alone. Organisation, communication, mobilisation, commitment and responsible civic participation remain indispensable,” it said.
The group called on members and supporters to strengthen their networks, deepen community engagement, identify areas in which they could contribute effectively and prepare for the responsibilities of the emerging political season.
According to the movement, 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 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,” it stated.
The movement called on Nigerians who believe in continuity, stability, development, national cohesion and progressive governance to identify with the emerging national mobilisation.(NAN)
OBE/WAS
Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq