Nigeria’s 2027 presidential contest gathered momentum yesterday as former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde emerged as presidential candidates of their respective political platforms, setting the stage for an increasingly competitive race for the nation’s highest office.

Former President Jonathan was adopted as the presidential candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, during a special national convention held at the faction’s secretariat in Abuja.

The convention took place amid heightened tension after security operatives sealed off the group’s initial venue in Wuse 2, forcing delegates and party leaders to relocate to their operational office in Garki, where proceedings continued.

Although Jonathan was absent from the event, his Certificate of Return was received on his behalf by Hon. Fred Agbedi, a member of the House of Representatives representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State.

Addressing supporters, Turaki condemned what he described as attempts to suppress democratic participation through intimidation and abuse of power, insisting that no individual or group was bigger than Nigeria.

He urged party members to remain peaceful and committed to democratic processes, stressing that political disagreements should be resolved through the ballot box rather than confrontation.

The convention later ratified Jonathan’s candidature through a voice vote following motions moved and seconded by party leaders, including members of the PDP State Chairmen Forum and former federal officials.

Meanwhile, Peter Obi formally accepted his nomination as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), using the occasion to unveil a broad vision centred on national unity, economic revival, security reform, healthcare expansion and educational development.

Speaking before party delegates, supporters and electoral officials in Abuja, Obi described the 2027 election as a defining moment for Nigeria, saying the country must reclaim hope and restore confidence in governance.

According to him, Nigeria’s challenges remain surmountable through competent leadership, institutional reforms and a commitment to inclusive development.

The former governor pledged to strengthen security through intelligence-driven strategies and modern technology while addressing the socio-economic conditions fueling insecurity across the country.

He also promised significant investments in healthcare and education, including expanding health insurance coverage, revitalising primary healthcare centres and prioritising human capital development.

On economic development, Obi vowed to transform Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy into a productive one by investing heavily in agriculture, rural development and energy infrastructure.

He further pledged to boost electricity generation and distribution by at least 10,000 megawatts within four years, describing stable power supply as essential for industrial growth and job creation.

In Ibadan, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also formally accepted his nomination as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), promising to lead a government anchored on transparency, competence and practical reforms.

Addressing party leaders, delegates and coalition partners, Makinde said his ambition was motivated by a desire to rebuild public confidence in government and deliver measurable improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

The governor outlined plans to reform the oil and gas sector, restructure the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) into a more efficient and commercially driven institution, and ensure that citizens benefit more directly from the nation’s natural resources.

He also identified food security as a major priority, arguing that a country blessed with vast agricultural potential should not be battling widespread hunger.

Makinde stressed that his campaign would focus on realistic solutions rather than political rhetoric, promising leadership that listens, learns and acts in the best interests of ordinary Nigerians.

His candidature received a significant boost with the endorsement of key political stakeholders, including a North-east delegation led by Bauchi State Deputy Governor Mohammed Auwal Jatau on behalf of Governor Bala Mohammed.

With Jonathan, Obi and Makinde now formally accepting nominations from their respective parties, the battle for the 2027 presidency is rapidly taking shape, setting the stage for what promises to be one of Nigeria’s most closely watched electoral contests in recent history.