The Progressive Scholars Network (PSN), a coalition of academics, intellectuals and professionals, has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, citing his administration’s education reforms, improved welfare for university lecturers and economic policies as reasons for its support ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Professor Abubakar Mohammed, on behalf of the national leadership, the Network said its decision followed an assessment of the administration’s performance, particularly its engagement with university-based unions, interventions in tertiary education, infrastructure development and efforts to strengthen the economy.
PSN commended Tinubu for the renegotiation of the Federal Government’s agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which provides for a 40 per cent upward review of academic staff emoluments, effective January 2026, alongside improved academic allowances and a special professorial cadre allowance.
The Network described the agreement as a significant step towards improving lecturers’ welfare and restoring confidence between the Federal Government and the academic community.
It urged the government to ensure full implementation of the agreement and sustain dialogue with university unions to promote industrial harmony and uninterrupted academic activities.
The organisation also applauded the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as an important intervention aimed at expanding access to tertiary education, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. It, however, called for greater transparency, accountability and improved implementation to ensure that eligible students benefit from the scheme.
On the economy, PSN acknowledged the administration’s efforts to address longstanding structural challenges through policy reforms, noting that although the measures have imposed difficulties on Nigerians, sustained implementation could stimulate investment, boost productivity and create employment opportunities. It urged the government to strengthen social protection measures and respond more effectively to the economic hardship facing vulnerable households.
The Network further recognised the administration’s infrastructure development efforts in transportation, energy and other critical sectors, stressing the need to extend such investments to rural and underserved communities. It also advocated increased funding for universities, research institutions, technical education, science and technology to strengthen Nigeria’s human capital development.
Explaining its endorsement, Professor Mohammed said the 2027 presidential election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to assess the administration’s achievements and shortcomings. He argued that policy continuity would allow the government to consolidate ongoing reforms, address implementation gaps and strengthen national institutions, while emphasising that continued support must be accompanied by accountability and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
“The Progressive Scholars Network hereby formally declares its political support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Our decision reflects our recognition of the administration’s economic reform agenda, its engagement with university lecturers, the establishment of NELFUND, infrastructure development and interventions aimed at strengthening education, human capital and national institutions,” the statement read in part.
PSN disclosed plans to mobilise its intellectual and professional resources for policy research, public enlightenment and constructive engagement ahead of the 2027 elections. It called on academics, students, professionals and other Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process, stressing that its endorsement of Tinubu would not prevent it from scrutinising government policies and advocating improvements in education, economic opportunities and citizens’ welfare.
