By OBSERVERS TIMES
In a significant display of political ambition, posters promoting Oyo State Governor Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde’s presidential candidacy for the 2027 elections have emerged prominently across key locations in Kano.
This surge in visibility follows a recent press briefing by the Nigeria Youths Awareness Group Makinde 2027 (NYAG Makinde 2027), where members asserted that Makinde is the candidate capable of propelling Nigeria towards progress in the upcoming elections.
Alhaji Lawal Abdullahi, National Secretary of the group, emphasized the importance of uniting all democratic supporters, regardless of their political affiliations, to secure Makinde’s nomination. “We are a moving train, and there is no stopping us until we achieve our objective of a Seyi Makinde presidency,” he declared during an interactive session with journalists in Kano.
The posters, emblazoned with the slogan “To Move Nigeria Forward 2027,” prominently feature an image of Governor Makinde alongside the message: “His Excellency, Engr Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde for President, Federal Republic of Nigeria,” courtesy of NYAG Makinde 2027.
A survey conducted across the city revealed that these posters have been strategically placed at high-traffic areas, including near the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport and the roundabout leading to the airport. The Wappa area, once home to the former Triumph newspaper, has also been adorned with the campaign message.
In addition, the Dengi Flyover and the renowned Kantin-Kwari Market—West Africa’s largest textile market—have been targeted to maximize visibility among local traders and commuters.
Public reactions to the posters have been largely positive. Alhaji Ibrahim Usman commented, “There is nothing wrong with placing Governor Makinde’s posters. If he intends to contest, he has the right to run for any elective position in the country.” Another local resident, Alhaji Abba Muhammadu, expressed hope for Makinde’s candidacy, stating, “Let Makinde declare his presidential intention; he would be a great leader because I have heard that he has performed excellently well.”
Mr. John Ezekiel, who noticed the posters at the airport roundabout, remarked, “We are waiting for those interested in contesting in 2027 to declare their intention. Then, it will be up to voters or Nigerians to decide who will lead them.”
In a follow-up interview, Abdullahi reaffirmed the group’s commitment to rallying support for Makinde across Northern Nigeria. “We have consulted with prominent politicians and eminent personalities across the country, and we have their support. The Seyi Makinde 2027 project is a massive movement that will catch on and spread like wildfire,” he asserted.
Looking ahead, Abdullahi revealed plans for an extensive promotional campaign. “By next week, in-sha Allah, our materials will flood the entire Northern Nigeria. Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Borno, Yobe, and Gombe will be awash with support for Seyi Makinde. Other states will follow subsequently,” he stated.
Abdullahi concluded by praising Makinde’s track record in Oyo State, describing him as a focused administrator dedicated to improving lives. “He is the kind of leader Nigeria needs now,” he affirmed.
