The National Chairman and Coordinator of Team Prosper, Shehu Bankole-Hameed, has expressed strong confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure re-election in 2027, insisting that ongoing reforms have placed Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth.
In an interview, Bankole-Hameed dismissed claims by opposition parties that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has failed to meet public expectations. He argued that recent economic policies, including the removal of fuel and foreign exchange subsidies, are necessary steps toward transparency and long-term stability.
According to him, critics who yearn for previous economic structures are ignoring the benefits of a more inclusive and sustainable system. He maintained that Nigeria is on a “sound footing,” despite current economic challenges.
Assessing the administration’s performance, Bankole-Hameed said Tinubu assumed office at a time of declining investor confidence and mounting economic pressures. He noted that reforms introduced by the government have restored credibility and attracted recognition from international financial institutions.
“While the reforms are yet to fully mature, progress is evident,” he said, adding that short-term hardship is often part of broader economic transformation.
On concerns about multiple pro-Tinubu groups operating without coordination, the Team Prosper coordinator described such activities as part of political mobilisation rather than premature campaigning. He stressed that his organisation is focused on promoting the administration’s achievements and message of inclusiveness.
Responding to allegations that the APC is behind internal crises in opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), he described the claims as unfounded.
He argued that internal challenges within opposition parties stem from their own structural weaknesses, not interference from the ruling party.
On insecurity, Bankole-Hameed acknowledged that the situation remains a major concern, describing it as “the elephant in the room.” He, however, suggested that the issue is less about lack of intelligence and more about insufficient action against known actors within the system.
He called for stronger collaboration between federal and sub-national authorities, including faster implementation of decentralised policing structures.
Addressing speculation about the role of Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of 2027, he urged caution and warned against creating unnecessary political tension. He described Shettima as “responsible” and advised that he should be allowed to continue in his current role without distractions.
On the possibility of a united opposition, Bankole-Hameed said while such a coalition could pose a challenge, it remains unlikely due to a lack of coordination and strategic planning among rival parties.
He concluded that electoral victory in 2027 would depend on preparation, discipline, and consistency, expressing confidence that the APC is well-positioned to retain power.
