Millions of Nigerians will head to the polls on Saturday to vote for their next president and parliament in an election that is being closely watched by analysts. The contest is expected to be tight

and unpredictable, with 18 candidates vying for the presidency, including Bola Tinubu from the ruling All Progressives Congress, Atiku Abubakar from the main opposition People’s Democratic Party, and Peter Obi from the Labour Party. The election is considered a crucial turning point after years of insecurity and economic troubles, and progress in tackling Nigeria’s problems is seen as key to stability in Africa.

As voters head to the polls, authorities have pledged to make arrangements for an efficient vote. However, The Cable has advised voters to prepare for long waits, and has recommended that they bring food, water, and a fan to protect against the 35-degree heat. It is also advisable to wear plain clothes with no political affiliations to avoid unnecessary confrontation with political thugs.

The Daily Post newspaper has called the election a “bellwether” and described it as a long road to the polls. Many are hoping for a credible poll and progress in tackling Nigeria’s multiple problems in order to achieve stability across Africa. Senior Nigerian government officials have stated that preparations have gone well and that everything is ready for the election.

The outcome of the election is uncertain, but Tinubu and Atiku are seen as the main contenders with significant power bases across Nigeria. Both are considered traditional politicians who will rely on massive organisation and spending to mobilise voters. Obi, on the other hand, is seen as a reformist willing to overhaul Nigeria’s political system and is leading in some polls. He has run an insurgent campaign that relies on social media, word of mouth, and the energy of his largely young following, with over 80% of the 10 million new voters registered for the coming poll under 34 years old. Photo by Darwinek, Wikimedia commons.