Economist Paul Alaje has urged candidates contesting Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election to present concrete economic policies aimed at boosting national productivity, warning that neglecting economic output could undermine the country’s economy.
Alaje, a Senior Economist at SPM Professionals, made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, where he discussed the economic issues Nigerians should consider when evaluating presidential candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.
“Anybody who is not discussing productivity is going to run the economy down,” he said.
The economist stressed that candidates should go beyond campaign promises and explain how their policies would improve economic performance and the purchasing power of Nigerians.
When asked what Nigerians should look out for when choosing their preferred candidates in the 2027 election, Alaje pointed to the ability of citizens to afford essential expenses and maintain their standard of living.
“Any candidate who is telling you that the money in your pocket will buy more, will improve more, and will afford your rent – that is the candidate you should vote for,” he said.
Productivity and the Cost of Living
Alaje’s comments place productivity at the centre of the economic debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election. His remarks highlight the importance of policies that can increase economic output while improving the ability of households to afford everyday necessities.
For many Nigerians, the cost of living, purchasing power and housing affordability remain important considerations when assessing economic proposals. Alaje’s argument suggests that presidential candidates should explain how their plans would translate into tangible improvements in household welfare.
Rather than relying solely on promises of economic relief, candidates would need to communicate how their proposed policies could support higher productivity and make goods and services more affordable.
What Nigerians Should Look for Ahead of 2027
The economist’s comments also underscore the importance of scrutinising economic policy proposals during the election campaign.
Voters evaluating candidates’ economic plans may consider their proposals for increasing productivity, supporting businesses, creating jobs, improving incomes and addressing the cost of essential goods and housing.
Alaje’s remarks add to the policy discussions expected to shape Nigeria’s political debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with economic management and household affordability among the issues highlighted in his comments.
His central message was that candidates should clearly explain how their economic policies would improve productivity and help Nigerians get more value from their incomes.