Campaign organisation cites rising poverty, mounting debt and education crisis, calls for new leadership ahead of 2027 election
The Makinde-Daura Presidential Campaign Organisation (MDPCO) has warned that Nigeria is facing a deepening economic and social crisis under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, insisting that the RESET NIGERIA Agenda of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Engr. Seyi Makinde, offers a viable alternative.
The organisation expressed concern over the country’s rising poverty rate, growing public debt, worsening insecurity and challenges in the education sector, arguing that these problems require urgent and decisive intervention.
In a statement issued on Monday
its Director of Media and Strategic Communications, Richard Nnanna Ihediwa, the MDPCO cited the World Bank’s April 2026 Nigeria Development Update, which it said estimated that approximately 140 million Nigerians, representing 63 per cent of the population, were living in poverty.
According to the organisation, the situation raises concerns about the possibility of a wider humanitarian crisis, with millions of households struggling to meet their basic needs.
The MDPCO also referenced reports indicating that approximately 70 per cent of Nigerian children under the age of 10 cannot read or understand a simple sentence, describing the situation as a major threat to the country’s educational development and future workforce.
MDPCO Faults Government’s Response to Economic Hardship
The campaign organisation criticised the Tinubu administration for what it described as insensitivity to the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, alleging that the economic hardship confronting citizens contrasts sharply with the extravagant lifestyles of some government officials.
It argued that the situation reflects a widening disconnect between the government and the people, adding that public leadership should prioritise citizens’ welfare, accountability and responsible management of national resources.
The organisation further expressed concern over Nigeria’s position on global poverty rankings, arguing that the country’s abundant human and natural resources should translate into improved living conditions for its citizens.
According to the MDPCO, the combination of economic hardship, institutional weaknesses, insecurity and declining public confidence has heightened public frustration and social tensions over the past three years.
Infrastructure Deficit, Public Debt Raise Concerns
The MDPCO also raised concerns over Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit, which it put at an estimated $2.3 trillion, arguing that addressing the gap would require sustained investment and effective resource management.
It criticised what it described as inadequate fiscal discipline, a lack of transparency in public procurement and the inefficient deployment of public funds.
The organisation further cited Nigeria’s public debt, which it put at ₦166.7 trillion, expressing concern that continued borrowing could place additional pressure on the economy and future generations.
It argued that borrowing should translate into measurable improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and other essential services.
The campaign organisation also questioned the benefits Nigerians have received from previous loans, raising concerns about allegations of financial mismanagement and the need for greater transparency in public expenditure.
It maintained that further borrowing without a credible repayment strategy could increase the country’s financial vulnerabilities and expose the economy to additional external pressures.
Tinubu’s Leadership Capacity Questioned
The MDPCO questioned President Tinubu’s capacity to address the country’s challenges, arguing that Nigeria requires leadership that is focused, accountable and consistently engaged in governance.
The organisation claimed that the country’s economic difficulties demand a clear policy direction, effective implementation of government programmes and stronger institutions capable of delivering results.
It warned that another four years under the current administration could deepen the challenges confronting Nigerians, particularly in the areas of poverty, debt sustainability, security and economic development.
These claims represent the campaign organisation’s assessment of the Tinubu administration and its policy direction.
MDPCO Projects Makinde’s RESET NIGERIA Agenda
Looking ahead to the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027, the MDPCO described the poll as an important opportunity for Nigerians to determine the country’s political and economic direction.
The organisation called for a change in leadership, presenting Engr. Seyi Makinde, the APM presidential candidate, as a candidate capable of offering a different approach to governance.
According to the MDPCO, Makinde’s RESET NIGERIA Agenda is designed to promote economic growth, social stability, transparency and inclusive governance through the effective utilisation of Nigeria’s resources and comparative advantages.
It said the agenda would prioritise the restructuring of the country’s productive sectors, security architecture and education system through data-driven policies aimed at delivering greater public benefits.
The organisation maintained that Nigeria needs leadership committed to placing the welfare of citizens above personal interests and political considerations.
Call for Mass Participation in 2027 Election
The MDPCO urged Nigerians to participate actively in the forthcoming presidential election, stressing the importance of protecting the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that the outcome reflects the will of the electorate.
It called on citizens to reject electoral manipulation and use their votes to demand accountability, competence and improved living conditions.
The statement concluded with a renewed appeal for Nigerians to support Makinde’s presidential ambition, describing his RESET NIGERIA Agenda as a pathway towards rebuilding public confidence, strengthening institutions and improving the nation’s economic prospects.
The organisation expressed optimism that a government guided
transparency, effective planning and inclusive development could help address Nigeria’s pressing challenges and create a more secure and prosperous future for its citizens.
Oyowatch.com
