Nigeria’s 2027 election campaign has officially begun, with the economy, rising living costs and insecurity emerging as major issues likely to shape the contest.

Political analyst Afolabi Adekaiyaoja said economic hardship remains the issue affecting Nigerians across regions, with its impact extending to security and development.

President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms have attracted support from economists and investors, but they have also increased pressure on households. Inflation previously reached 34 per cent before falling to 15.4 per cent in July, while the naira lost significant value.

Security will also feature prominently in the campaign. Ladd Serwat, an Africa analyst with ACLED, linked the rise in violence to expanding banditry across northern and central Nigeria and continued conflict in Borno State.

Adekaiyaoja also said opposition parties face challenges in presenting a clear alternative to Tinubu’s policies because of internal divisions and legal battles.

The campaign period follows the signing of the National Peace Accord by Tinubu, Peter Obi, Omoyele Sowore, Donald Duke and other presidential contenders on Tuesday.

Obi urged politicians and electoral authorities to ensure that Nigerians can vote freely and have their votes counted, stressing that the credibility of the electoral process will remain crucial to the 2027 contest.