By Omoniyi David
Although Nigeria’s official campaign season has not begun, clear signs suggest that the race for the 2027 general elections is already quietly underway.
There are no posters or open declarations yet, but political observers say power shifts, alliance-building and strategic calculations are already in motion behind the scenes.
In Nigeria, analysts note, elections are often shaped long before public campaigns begin, through private negotiations and elite consensus.
Professor of Political Science at the University of Ilorin, Dr Hassan Saliu, said early, discreet manoeuvres usually determine electoral outcomes.
“The loudest phase of politics is often the least important. Real decisions are taken early and quietly,” he said.
Across Abuja and state capitals, former officeholders are resurfacing under the guise of consultations, while second-term governors are reportedly holding more closed-door meetings.
Lawmakers and ministers are also strengthening grassroots structures through constituency engagements.
Party leaders are paying renewed attention to ward-level politics, signalling that the foundation for 2027 is already being laid, even as the public remains largely unaware.
