A POLITICAL JOURNEY OF BOLA AHMED TINUBU: His Ascendance to Power in Nigeria

Introduction:  It was Bola Ahmed Tinubu's exceptional political acumen and strategic maneuvering that led to his victory as Nigeria's President. His resilience, political prowess, and strategic alliances are highlighted in this article as the factors leading to his triumph.

 Defying the odds: In spite of many odds against him, Tinubu persevered and weathered numerous attacks on his character. A phoney Chicago education and drug involvement were among the accusations. While being targeted by critics, he emerged unscathed from the investigations and built a successful political career.

Navigating Political Landscapes: Tinubu's path to the presidency was paved with meticulous political calculations and strategic alliances. He embarked on a nationwide campaign to garner support, starting with Northern Nigeria. He sought influential figures to secure the region's substantial voting bloc.

Building Key Alliances: Recognizing the importance of securing the support of key political figures, Tinubu formed crucial partnerships with governors in pivotal Northern swing states such as Kano, Kaduna, Borno, and Katsina. These alliances bolstered his chances of success and neutralized potential opposition.

The presidential bid: Rather than succumbing to rumors or setbacks, Tinubu proactively declared his candidacy for the presidency, sending a clear signal to potential rivals. By taking this step, he raised questions about the Osinbajo project, showcasing his determination to pursue the highest office in the land.

The Vice Presidential Selection: Tinubu's meticulous approach extended to selecting his running mate. He chose Kassim Shettima, a highly respected politician with a strong political network in Northern Nigeria. This decision ensured enhanced access to the region's significant voter base and demonstrated Tinubu's electoral acumen.

Strong Presence in Critical Areas: Tinubu's victory in the 2023 Presidential election was a testament to his strong presence in areas of high voter density. He strategically targeted regions where his support was substantial. This included winning President Buhari's polling unit and securing a significant number of votes in critical areas.

Emotional Intelligence and Tact: In addition to his political acumen, Tinubu exhibited exceptional emotional intelligence and tact in managing relationships. This quality set him apart from his competitors, as he successfully navigated a productive partnership with President Buhari. He ensured the cohesion of and carefully avoided conflict with, the Buhari administration. 

Conclusion: Bola Ahmed Tinubu's emergence as Nigeria's President was the culmination of his long-term political strategy, resilience, and ability to build strategic alliances. His meticulous approach, coupled with his superior political acumen, has positioned him to lead Nigeria into an exciting era of economic growth and development.