President [Bola Tinubu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bola_Tinubu) addressed a crowd at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign flag‑off rally held on Saturday at Ranchers Bees Stadium, also known as Kaduna Township Stadium, in [Kaduna State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaduna_State). He used the platform to claim that his political opponents are responsible for the nation’s hunger and poverty, while insisting his administration is actively working to eradicate those problems.
**Key points from the speech**
- Tinubu said, “I hear my opponent talking about hunger, poverty. Who created it? They did! They created the hunger, they created the poverty. We are trying to eradicate it.”
- He defended the government’s record on regular salary payments, stating, “We pay salaries regularly.”
- The president praised state governors, noting, “Our governors are working. I am proud of them. They are developing.”
- He thanked Kaduna residents for their support in the 2023 presidential election, adding, “You gave me joy to remember the victory you gave me to become president. I come again to thank you.”
- Tinubu concluded by urging Nigerians to give him another term so he can continue his promises of prosperity, continuity, progress and development.
What did the president claim about hunger and poverty?
Tinubu asserted that the current levels of hunger and poverty are the direct result of actions taken by his political adversaries, not the policies of his own government. He positioned his administration as the force working to eliminate those challenges.
How did he describe his government’s performance?
He highlighted that federal salaries are being paid on schedule and commended the performance of state governors, describing them as “developing” their respective regions. No specific figures on salary disbursement were provided.
Why is the rally significant?
The event marks the official launch of the APC’s campaign for the 2027 general elections, signalling the party’s intent to retain the presidency. Holding the rally in Kaduna, a key northern state, underscores the strategic importance of securing continued support from the region.
What is the president asking of voters?
Tinubu appealed for a second term, promising to sustain his agenda of economic growth and development. He framed the upcoming election as an opportunity for Nigerians to endorse his vision and reject the opposition’s alleged role in the country’s hardships.
The speech reflects the heightened political rhetoric typical of pre‑election campaigns in Nigeria, where incumbents often attribute socio‑economic woes to opponents while showcasing their own achievements. As the 2027 election cycle gains momentum, both the APC and its rivals are expected to intensify their messaging across the country.