Tinubu Campaigns on Infrastructure Record, Seeks Second Term in 2027
President Bola Tinubu has asked voters in Edo State to support his re-election bid in 2027, citing ongoing federal infrastructure, energy and healthcare projects as evidence of his administration's performance and commitment to development.
The President made the appeal through Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who represented him at an All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. The rally, held on Thursday, November 12, also coincided with the second anniversary of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration.
/ You Might Also Like /
Shettima said the Federal Government had initiated several projects across Edo State and needed another term to complete ongoing commitments and consolidate its achievements.
He urged residents to assess the administration based on the impact of its policies and projects, particularly those intended to improve infrastructure, electricity supply and healthcare delivery.
Federal Government Highlights Major Road Projects in Edo
Shettima identified the ongoing dualisation of three major road corridors: Benin-Ekpoma, Benin-Auchi and Benin-Okene. He also highlighted emergency repair works on the Benin-Asaba Road.
The projects form part of the Federal Government's infrastructure commitments in the state, with improved road connectivity expected to support transportation, commercial activities and movement between communities.
Road infrastructure plays an important role in regional economic development by improving access to markets, reducing transportation constraints and strengthening connections between urban and commercial centres.
However, the administration's ability to complete the projects within its stated timelines will remain an important consideration for residents and businesses that depend on these routes.
Gas Pipeline and Power Transmission Projects Feature in Campaign Pitch
The Vice-President also highlighted developments in the energy sector, particularly the completion of the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben gas pipeline.
He said the pipeline would support electricity generation, while new transmission lines could contribute an additional 600 megawatts to Nigeria's national electricity grid.
The projects form part of the administration's broader energy infrastructure commitments, which seek to address electricity supply constraints and strengthen the country's power generation and transmission capacity.
Reliable electricity remains a critical requirement for businesses, manufacturers and property developers. Improved power infrastructure can reduce dependence on expensive alternative energy sources, lower operating costs and support investment in commercial and residential developments.
The extent to which the pipeline and transmission investments translate into more reliable electricity supply will therefore remain an important measure of their economic impact.
Healthcare Investments and Public Facilities Also Highlighted
Beyond infrastructure and energy, Shettima cited the radiotherapy centre at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) as another project demonstrating the Federal Government's investment in Edo State.
He also highlighted federal support for 158 public health facilities across the state.
These investments form part of the administration's healthcare commitments, with improved medical infrastructure expected to strengthen access to essential services.
Shettima further referenced developments concerning the return of Benin artefacts, noting that Cambridge and Sweden had transferred ownership of some cultural treasures to Nigeria.
Okpebholo Pledges 2.5 Million Votes for Tinubu
Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed support for Tinubu's re-election, arguing that the President's interventions had contributed to development in Edo State.
He said approximately 15,000 Edo residents were benefiting from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) programme and described the state as a major centre of construction activity.
Okpebholo also pledged to deliver 2.5 million votes for the President in the 2027 election.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio similarly called for greater electoral support for the APC across the South-South region. He referenced the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, increased financial allocations to states under the administration's fiscal reforms and other infrastructure investments.
Akpabio also cited the recruitment of more than 500 forest guards from Edo State and the establishment of the Nigerian Army's 83 Division in the state among the administration's contributions.
APC Presidential Campaign Council Director-General Abdulaziz Yari linked improved security in the South-South to increased crude oil production, which he said had risen to approximately 1.8 million barrels per day from around one million barrels.
Former Edo Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, also commended Okpebholo's administration, highlighting its investments in roads, flyovers, public schools and healthcare facilities.
He urged voters to support APC candidates across the board, arguing that a cooperative National Assembly would help the President implement his policies.
Infrastructure Delivery Remains Central to Re-election Appeal
The campaign rally placed infrastructure delivery, electricity investment, healthcare development and security at the centre of the APC's appeal to Edo voters ahead of the January 16, 2027 election.
For residents and businesses, the practical significance of these commitments will depend on the completion of ongoing projects and the extent to which they improve economic activity and access to essential services.
The administration's infrastructure record is therefore likely to remain an important part of the political debate as the 2027 election approaches.
READ MORE
