The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has declared its support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing what it described as the administration’s commitment to economic reforms, infrastructure development, and national stability.
The endorsement, announced by the influential socio-cultural organization, signals growing political support for the president within parts of the South-West region as discussions surrounding the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum.
In a statement, the council said its decision was based on an assessment of Tinubu’s performance since assuming office in May 2023, noting that although the country continues to face economic and security challenges, the administration has demonstrated a willingness to implement difficult but necessary reforms aimed at repositioning the economy.
According to the YCE, President Tinubu inherited significant economic challenges and has taken bold steps to address structural issues affecting national development. The council maintained that many of the policies introduced by the administration require time to produce their full benefits and should therefore be given an opportunity to mature.
The group expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership capacity, arguing that continuity in governance would help sustain ongoing reforms and development initiatives across critical sectors of the economy.
“The president has shown courage in taking decisions that previous administrations avoided. While the reforms may have created short-term hardships, they are intended to build a stronger and more sustainable economy for future generations,” the council stated.
The YCE also commended the administration’s efforts in infrastructure development, investment attraction, and attempts to improve public revenue generation. It urged Nigerians to remain patient as the government continues to implement policies designed to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.
The endorsement comes at a time when political realignments and consultations are already taking shape ahead of the next electoral cycle. Although the 2027 election remains more than a year away, various political groups, stakeholders, and regional organizations have begun expressing positions on the future political direction of the country.
Political observers view the declaration by the Yoruba Council of Elders as a significant development, given the organization’s influence among traditional leaders, professionals, and political stakeholders within the South-West geopolitical zone.
However, the council acknowledged the economic difficulties currently facing many Nigerians, including rising living costs and inflationary pressures. It urged the federal government to intensify efforts to cushion the impact of reforms on vulnerable citizens through targeted social intervention programmes and policies aimed at boosting productivity.
The group further called for national unity and constructive engagement among political actors, stressing that the country’s development should remain a collective responsibility beyond partisan interests.
President Tinubu’s administration has continued to defend its economic reforms, including measures aimed at stabilizing public finances, increasing government revenue, and attracting foreign investment. Government officials have repeatedly argued that while some policies have imposed short-term sacrifices, they are necessary to place Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth.
With the 2027 election gradually entering the national conversation, the endorsement by the Yoruba Council of Elders is expected to contribute to ongoing political debates over the administration’s performance and the direction of the country in the years ahead.
