The Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, a decision announced at the group's annual synod on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. Archbishop Leonard Bature Kawas, the CBCN President-General, cited Tinubu's record in office, particularly his approach to appointments, as a key reason for the endorsement, despite concerns that typically surround a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.
Endorsement Announced at Annual Synod
Archbishop Kawas made the announcement at the 2026 synod, emphasizing that Tinubu's actions had earned the group's confidence. He highlighted that Tinubu had not only made appointments at the national level but had also supported the emergence of Christian governors as the majority in Nigeria. "He did not only appoint at the national level; he also supported the emergence of Christian governors to be the majority in Nigeria. He has stood with Christianity alongside his wife," Kawas said.
The archbishop also praised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he described as a historic move in its leadership structure. "For the first time, the ruling party appointed a born-again Christian and preacher of the gospel to be the national leader of the party," he said, as reported by Vanguard.
Bishops Pledge Prayer and Advocacy
Kawas added that the bishops would back the president through prayer and public advocacy, particularly around what he called Tinubu's programmes for national development. "We are here today to reassure him of our solid support; we are standing with him in prayers and advocacy for the good programmes he has brought forth for the liberation of Nigeria," he stated.
He further affirmed, "We stand with the president today, and as long as he's willing to be our president and even come in 2027, we will still be standing with him. On this, this house has endorsed him for the 2027 presidency."
Call for Inclusion of Religious Leaders
Beyond the endorsement, Kawas raised a broader concern about the role of religious leaders in governance. He urged the federal government to include both Christian and Muslim clerics in political appointments, arguing that such voices should not be sidelined in the selection process.
The CBCN president also confirmed that Tinubu had responded to the group's earlier call for engagement with United States President Donald Trump on the issue of insecurity in Nigeria, as reported by Punch.
The event drew senior government officials, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris.
In a related development, former Benue state governor Samuel Ortom publicly declared that he stands by his decision to back President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election, saying he has no regrets about the position he took. Ortom made the declaration during an interview on ARISE News, where he addressed the political climate in Benue state, his relationship with current governor Hyacinth Alia, and his preparations for the 2027 general elections.
