Nigeria’s major transport unions have closed ranks in a unified show of political support, endorsing President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election. The unions launched a new coalition, Transporters for Tinubu 2027, praising ongoing reforms in the transport sector and the administration’s push toward Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) adoption.

At the launch event, National Coordinator Prince Dr. Segun Obayendo declared a “state of emergency” in the nation’s transport system, citing alarming figures of 5,421 road fatalities recorded in 2024 and logistics inefficiencies costing the economy an estimated ₦3.5 trillion annually. He argued that Nigeria’s economic progress is inextricably linked to an efficient transport system.

“If we fix transport, we fix half of our economic challenges,” Obayendo said, positioning the group as both a political vehicle and a platform advocating for sweeping reforms.

National Secretary Mrs. Chinwe Uwaegbute expressed confidence in the administration’s direction, crediting the government with revitalizing the rail sector, promoting CNG-powered vehicles, and committing substantial investments to road infrastructure. She announced plans to establish a nationwide structure across all 36 states and the FCT to mobilize grassroots support.

Swift endorsements followed from top industry leaders.

Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman, President of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), hailed the introduction of CNG vehicles and pledged the support of members across all 774 local government areas, promising a strong mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election.

Comrade Augustine, President of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria, described the launch as “an assembly of like minds,” highlighting tricycle subsidies as a key gain under the current administration and pledging full cooperation with the group.

In the aviation sector, Comrade Eselle Festus endorsed the president on behalf of the Aviation Union, noting that the sector had enjoyed unprecedented stability and improved safety under the Tinubu administration.

On the railways, Comrade Kazeem of the Nigeria Railway Workers Union applauded the appointment of Dr. Kayode Opeifa as Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, describing it as “putting a round peg in a round hole.” He confirmed that the union and the International Railway Federation would fully align with the continuity agenda.

Road transport stakeholder Mrs. Precious Ademoroti added that ongoing road rehabilitation projects have improved vehicle safety and reduced highway accidents.

Representing millions of workers across the road, rail and air transport sectors, the coalition has quickly emerged as a significant political force.

LAGOS EYE NEWS report that their collective endorsement underscores a shared belief that the administration’s CNG rollout and infrastructure reforms require a second term for full implementation positioning the transport sector as a major player in the buildup to the 2027 elections.