The Convener of the Tinubu Must Stay (TMS) movement, Engr. Ibrahim Uba, has defended advocacy for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re‑election in 2027, arguing that the administration’s economic and governance reforms require continuity to achieve long‑term national impact.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Lagos, Uba described the group as a civic platform committed to promoting continuity, stability and sustained reforms rather than abrupt political transitions. His remarks were contained in a statement by TMS Director of Communication and Media Relations, Mr. Adebisi Adams.
Reacting to comments about the organisation name, “Tinubu Must Stay,” Uba said it reflected a conviction that continuity was imperative to consolidate ongoing reforms. He cited structural changes in fiscal discipline, infrastructure development, digital governance and national security modernisation as reforms that need time to yield measurable results.
Uba recognised the economic hardship experienced by many Nigerians following the fuel subsidy removal and foreign‑exchange reforms, but insisted the measures were necessary to stabilise the economy. The objective, he explained, was to correct systemic distortions and lay the foundation for sustainable growth, increased investment and improved fiscal health.
Addressing criticisms that early advocacy for the 2027 elections could distract the government from governance, Uba emphasised that democratic participation extends beyond election periods, saying citizens have the constitutional right to organise, evaluate leadership, and promote continuity or change.
The convener also responded to opposition calls for political change in 2027, saying leadership should be evaluated based on objective performance rather than political sentiment. “Opposition remains an essential component of democracy. However, change should be meaningful and evidence‑based, not merely reactionary,” he noted.
On concerns that regional or ethnic politics could limit the movement’s acceptance, Uba hinted TMS would adopt an issue‑based approach centred on infrastructure development, security, economic reforms and inclusive governance. He said the group was national in outlook and intended to engage citizens in all regions through dialogue and evidence‑based crusade.
TMS, according to Uba, would combine grassroots mobilisation with digital advocacy, media campaigns and policy education to encourage wider civic participation. He characterised the association as a hybrid movement focused on community outreach, coalition‑building and informed public engagement as opposed to political lobbying.
Appealing to Nigerians yet to decide on President Tinubu’s re‑election bid, Uba said, “Nigeria is undergoing foundational reforms that require time, patience and consistency. We urge Nigerians to look beyond partisan politics, assess the progress being made and support continuity for sustainable national development.”
Speakers at the Lagos briefing highlighted government interventions, including more than 1.5 million beneficiaries of the NELFUND student‑loan programme, 160,000 trained fellows under the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, and over 120,000 vehicles converted to compressed natural gas (CNG) nationwide.
They cited fertiliser distribution, improved seedlings, mechanisation, irrigation financing, and market access. On security, speakers said though government operations against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft had intensified, progress must be gauged by improvements in the safety of communities, roads, farms and businesses.
The briefing also touched on infrastructure, housing and debates around the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Admitting statistics alone do not erase the difficulties faced by Nigerians, speakers urged citizens to question the government, verify claims, scrutinise policies, demand results, and acknowledge achievements where evidence supports them.
The TMS operates independently as a citizens’ movement driven by volunteers from diverse political, social and professional backgrounds. Under a national leadership, the organisation maintains a decentralised structure with coordinators across various states and is funded through voluntary contributions.
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