Strategy or Distraction? Tinubu Rallies Socialites and Entertainers for 2027 Under "City Boys Movement"

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intensified his political groundwork ahead of the 2027 general elections by actively recruiting influential socialites, celebrities, and entertainers into the "City Boys Movement." According to reports emerging on Monday, February 23, 2026, the presidency is leveraging the massive reach of these public figures to reshape his administration’s image and secure a stronger foothold among the youth and urban voters. This "harvesting" of star power is seen as a strategic move to neutralize growing criticism of the government’s economic policies and to build a formidable grassroots machinery early.

The City Boys Movement, which gained prominence during the 2023 campaign, is being repositioned as a high-profile advocacy group aimed at bridging the gap between the government and the entertainment industry. Sources suggest that several top-tier Nollywood actors, popular musicians, and influential "big boys" in the social scene have been invited to collaborate on projects that highlight the administration's "Renewed Hope" achievements. By aligning with these trendsetters, the President’s team hopes to dominate the social media narrative and appeal to a demographic that often feels disconnected from traditional political messaging.

It appears that the government is focusing more on "optics and celebrity endorsements" than on addressing the core issues of inflation, insecurity, and unemployment facing the average Nigerian. There are concerns that the heavy involvement of entertainers in partisan politics could further polarize the creative industry and turn public discourse into a contest of popularity rather than a debate on performance and governance.

Despite the backlash, proponents of the movement argue that entertainers are legitimate participants in the Nigerian project and have every right to support a leader they believe in. They maintain that the City Boys Movement provides a platform for the creative sector to influence policy and ensure that the voices of young Nigerians are heard at the highest levels of power. As the political atmosphere begins to heat up nearly two years before the next election, the success of this celebrity-backed strategy will depend on whether the influence of socialites can translate into actual votes at the ballot box.

Do you think the endorsement of celebrities and socialites will help President Tinubu win over the youth in 2027, or are Nigerians more focused on results than star power? Share your comments below!

Share to: