In a significant move ahead of the 2027 general elections, renowned Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo, widely known as Nino B, has secured a new political appointment. The actor, celebrated for his roles in films such as Picture Perfect and based in the United States, has been designated as the Atlanta, USA coordinator for the pro-President Bola Tinubu advocacy group, Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN).
Announcement and Role Details
Ninalowo made the announcement public through his official Instagram page on Saturday, February 3, 2026. He shared a series of promotional flyers that prominently feature symbols of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigerian national emblems, aimed at rallying support from the diaspora community. In his post, the actor expressed deep honor and excitement about the role, writing, "Honored to serve as Coordinator! Atlanta/USA for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu." According to the flyers, Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Tinubu, is listed as the founder-in-chief of the group, highlighting the familial and strategic connections within the political movement.
Context and Preceding Events
This appointment follows a recent viral incident where Seyi Tinubu presented a letter of appointment to businessman Obi Cubana, naming him as the Southeast coordinator for the City Boy Movement, another pro-Tinubu support group. The timing of Ninalowo's role underscores a broader effort to mobilize influential figures across various regions and sectors to bolster President Tinubu's re-election campaign for the 2027 polls. These coordinated appointments suggest a calculated strategy to expand political outreach and consolidate support both within Nigeria and among the global Nigerian diaspora.
Public Reactions and Controversy
The announcement has ignited a flurry of mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media, reflecting the polarized political climate as the 2027 elections approach. Many users have voiced their opinions, with some offering congratulations while others express criticism and disappointment.
- yuledochie commented: "Welcome on board brother."
- withlove.halima remarked: "Jokes on you… 'Tinubu is fixing Nigeria' from someone who has his kids and immediate family members outside Nigeria."
- funmislist urged: "Vote your choices.. if you like BAT vote him and if You like OBi vote him. If Atiku is your choice vote him. Don't let election divide us. Not worth it."
- oshugarboy_17 wrote: "I used to respect you a lot but now I see the type of person you are.. Alatenuje."
- fine_nkem noted: "Your kids are outside the country na. Obviously you don’t care about the ones in Nigeria. Smh."
- bhayo_show stated: "Bolanle ninalowo is that how you relaxed in USA that you lived in before it was fixed. Guy I thought you have sense. So disappointed you could be found in things like this. This is simply stomach infrastructure. You are looking for opportunities in politics in nigeria."
- otunba_adegbow expressed support: "great job nino, we launching California movement in a bit! We are coming! Asiwaju le kan si! By force by fire Nigeria must good! Asiwaju or nobody!"
- damoroye advised: "iamnino_b brother you know better than this... Chai you fall some of your fans hand... You should have stayed neutral."
These reactions highlight the contentious nature of celebrity involvement in politics, with debates centering on issues of authenticity, diaspora engagement, and the perceived motivations behind such appointments.
Broader Implications and Analysis
Ninalowo's appointment is part of a growing trend where Nigerian celebrities and business leaders are increasingly drawn into political advocacy, particularly in the lead-up to major elections. This move not only amplifies the visibility of pro-Tinubu campaigns but also taps into the actor's substantial fan base and influence, potentially swaying public opinion among younger and diaspora voters. The strategic placement of coordinators in key international locations like Atlanta indicates a focused effort to harness overseas support, which has become a critical factor in Nigerian electoral politics.
Furthermore, the backlash from some quarters underscores the challenges faced by public figures when aligning with political causes, as they risk alienating segments of their audience. The reference to Obi Cubana's earlier appointment and his subsequent defense of his role adds layers to this narrative, suggesting that such figures are prepared to navigate criticism while advancing their political affiliations.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the involvement of high-profile individuals like Bolanle Ninalowo is likely to intensify, shaping campaign dynamics and voter engagement across Nigeria and beyond.
