‘I looked very hopeless’: Tinubu reflects on 2023 presidential election

President Bola Tinubu has said he appeared very unlikely to win the 2023 presidential election but thanked Nigerians, especially the people of Rivers State, for supporting him.

Tinubu spoke on Saturday during his presidential campaign visit to Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

He thanked the people for believing in him and supporting his ambition during the 2023 election.

According to him, their support helped him win the mandate he is currently using to govern the country.

“Thank you for the last election. In 2022 and 2023, I looked very hopeless, but you came out in large numbers to support me and gave me the mandate I am using to govern today. You are positive contributors,” the President said.

Tinubu is seeking re-election in the 2027 presidential election.

His major challengers include Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The President also expressed appreciation to the people of Rivers State for their role in his political journey, noting that their support during the last election had contributed to his emergence as president.

His visit to Port Harcourt is part of his political activities ahead of the 2027 general election as he seeks another four-year term in office.

Tinubu is expected to use the campaign tour to engage supporters, strengthen the ruling party’s political base and seek renewed support for his re-election bid.