President Bola Tinubu is expected to miss campaign rallies in more than 20 states as the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for the 2027 general election, with party leaders expected to represent him at several campaign events across the country.

The development follows the release of the APC’s proposed nationwide campaign rally timetable, which covers Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to the proposed schedule, Tinubu is expected to personally participate in campaign rallies in 12 states, while other party leaders and members of the presidential campaign council will handle activities in other locations.

Why Tinubu Will Miss Some Rallies

The president recently explained that he would not be able to attend every campaign event because of the responsibilities attached to his office.

Speaking on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the inauguration of the APC Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu stressed that governance must continue even as the party prepares for the next election.

He pointed to Nigeria’s financial obligations and the need to attract investors as reasons he must remain focused on his presidential duties.

Tinubu also assured party members that he would still make time to address Nigerians directly while campaign officials coordinated activities across states and local government areas.

APC Campaign to Begin in Kaduna

The proposed timetable indicates that the nationwide campaign will begin in Kaduna State on October 24, 2026.

Other locations where Tinubu is expected to attend rallies include Port Harcourt in Rivers State, Jos in Plateau State, Ibadan in Oyo State, Maiduguri in Borno State, Enugu, Bauchi, Sokoto, Asaba in Delta State, Kano, Yola in Adamawa State and Lagos.

The proposed schedule places the grand finale in Lagos on January 9, 2027.

However, the party has stated that the timetable remains subject to official confirmation and possible adjustments.

Party Leaders to Coordinate Campaign Activities

With Tinubu not expected at every rally, APC leaders and campaign council members will be responsible for mobilising supporters and presenting the party’s message in other locations.

The campaign will give the ruling party an opportunity to explain its record in government, outline its plans and seek support ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The extent to which the president’s planned absences will affect campaign activities remains to be seen.

What This Means for the 2027 Election

The proposed arrangement highlights the challenge of balancing presidential responsibilities with nationwide political campaigning.

While the APC prepares to take its campaign message across the country, Tinubu has indicated that he intends to maintain his focus on governing Nigeria rather than attending every rally personally.

The campaign timetable is still subject to change, and further details may emerge as the election season approaches.

Utelnova will continue to follow developments surrounding the 2027 elections and bring readers verified updates on the major political stories shaping Nigeria.