The political support group, BAT Vanguard, has officially thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's bid for re-election in the 2027 general elections. The group announced an ambitious plan to secure at least 10 million votes across Nigeria to support the President's second-term ambition.
Endorsement and Strategic Mobilisation Unveiled
The endorsement and the specific vote target were made public by the Convener of the BAT Vanguard, Honourable Sola Olofin. He spoke at the organisation's End-of-Year Party and Special Recognition Awards 2026, which was held in Abuja. The event's theme was "Standing Firm for Renewed Hope: The BAT Vanguard Mandate."
Olofin stated that the group has already begun the process of expanding and strengthening its grassroots networks in all parts of the country. This move is designed to achieve the set target of 10 million votes and forms a core part of a wider mobilisation strategy ahead of the 2027 polls.
Praising Tinubu's First-Term Reforms
In his address, Olofin justified the endorsement by pointing to the political courage demonstrated by President Tinubu's administration. He highlighted several key policy areas that have defined the government's first term, including:
- Fiscal restructuring
- Subsidy rationalisation
- Monetary stabilisation
- Infrastructure expansion
- The redesign of social investment programmes
"President Tinubu has taken bold decisions that previous administrations avoided. These reforms are gradually restoring confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction," Olofin asserted.
He also commended the administration's handling of national security, noting improved coordination among security agencies, intelligence-driven operations, and a rise in public confidence within regions previously troubled by insecurity.
Beyond Elections: Monitoring and Social Support
Olofin revealed that the BAT Vanguard's role extends beyond just electoral campaigning. Starting from 2026, the group plans to begin a structured monitoring and evaluation engagement with key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). This initiative aims to support the effective implementation of the government's Renewed Hope Agenda.
Furthermore, the group announced a nationwide social support programme intended to reach a minimum of 50,000 vulnerable households. The programme will provide essential items such as food, school materials, and basic welfare assistance.
Olofin, who serves as the Chairman of the Management Board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), thanked President Tinubu for the appointment. He noted that reforms at the NSITF under his watch are focused on digital transformation, improved governance, and rebuilding public trust in the social security system.
Calls for Sustained Grassroots Engagement
Another speaker at the event, Dr. Diakpo Obire, emphasised the need for continuous civic mobilisation and grassroots engagement to deepen democratic participation before the 2027 elections. He described BAT Vanguard as a crucial platform that helps bridge the gap between government policies and public understanding.
Obire noted that the organisation has actively promoted civic engagement across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through various activities like town hall meetings, voter education, youth forums, and digital advocacy.
While acknowledging that the administration's reforms have presented challenges, Obire stressed they are necessary for building a more competitive economy and inclusive society. He concluded that public understanding and grassroots support will remain critical as Nigeria progresses towards the 2027 general elections.
