This week, we focus on SBM Intelligence's latest report, Nigeria 2027: How the Country May Vote – Voter Sentiment Tracker, Wave 1 Analysis.

The report provides an early snapshot of voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 elections, revealing widespread dissatisfaction with the country's direction, strong support for political change, and significant regional differences in voter preferences. It highlights the importance of voter turnout, identifies the South-West as a key battleground region, and shows that economic hardship and insecurity remain the issues that matter most to Nigerians.

The report also raises concerns about the growing influence of social media, misinformation, and AI-generated content on the electoral process.

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Teachers across Nigeria are protesting rising school kidnappings, demanding stronger protection for students and staff as insecurity continues to disrupt learning. Will measures put in place by the government be enough to make schools safe again? 

Nigeria’s private sector has warned against further compulsory wage increases, saying many businesses are already struggling with high costs despite the ₦70,000 minimum wage. Should wages go up faster to match living costs, or should businesses be protected from added pressure? 

The U.S. plans to reduce the number of embassies and consulates in Africa that process visa applications from nearly 50 to just 20 regional hubs as part of a broader immigration policy shift. Will this policy make U.S. visa processing more efficient, or create new barriers for Africans seeking travel, study, and business opportunities in the United States? 

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Last Friday, Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye fired Ousmanne Sonko, the Prime Minister and longtime ally. Despite the dismissal, Sonko remains influential after being elected speaker of parliament. Could this political split affect Senegal’s stability and democratic progress?

Nigeria's drug enforcement agency seized a $363 million meth lab hidden in a forest in Ogun State, marking one of Nigeria’s biggest drug busts. Could this operation weaken drug trafficking networks in the country?

The NNPC has accused Dangote Refinery of attempting to create a monopoly in Nigeria’s fuel sector amid ongoing tensions over fuel supply and pricing. Could this dispute affect competition and fuel prices in Nigeria?

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The World Health Organization has declared that an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is under control. However, Rwanda has tightened border measures as a precaution. How should countries balance health security with trade and movement during outbreak responses?

Cocoa farmers in Côte d’Ivoire are protesting over payments, while a farmers’ group is also demanding an audit of the country’s cocoa regulatory council over concerns about transparency. What steps should be taken to ensure fair pricing and accountability in the cocoa industry?

INEC has closed the window for political defections, while Oyo state Governor Seyi Makinde has declared his presidential ambition, adding to the growing list of strong contenders ahead of the next election cycle. What political outcomes should Nigerians expect from this increasingly competitive race?

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With critics accusing the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi of being a French operation, could the summit mark a turning point in how Africa positions itself in the global economy and unlock stronger partnerships for sustainable growth?

Nigeria’s stock market has surpassed ₦160 trillion in value. What is driving this renewed momentum in Nigeria’s stock market, and can the surge in investor confidence be sustained amid the country’s economic realities?

President Tinubu has appointed a Homeland Security Adviser. Would the move aid the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance national safety and stability?

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SBM published the Jollof Index last week, which showed that it now costs 43% of Nigeria's national minimum wage. Given what has been happening globally, especially with rising energy prices, what will increased economic pressure mean for Nigerians? 

Nigeria says 130 citizens want to be evacuated after recent attacks on Nigerians in the country. South Africa's ambassador was summoned, signalling growing diplomatic tension and concern for citizen safety abroad. Will this lead to renewed bilateral efforts to address recurring xenophobic violence?

The Bank of Ghana says the cost of currency issuance has dropped sharply, even as the central bank reported a $1.25 billion loss. Will tighter financial management and monetary reforms restore confidence in the country’s financial system and stabilise the broader economy?

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Can Taiwo Oyedele deliver the fiscal reforms needed to strengthen investor confidence and drive economic growth in Nigeria?

A recent rainstorm has caused another setback to the national power grid, worsening electricity disruptions. What urgent steps can Nigeria take to strengthen infrastructure and disaster preparedness against worsening climate-related disruptions?

Ivory Coast has recorded over one trillion CFA francs in tax revenue and secured a new 330 billion CFA francs deal. Can the country sustain this fiscal momentum to drive long-term economic growth and regional competitiveness?

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The US has withdrawn non-essential staff from Abuja due to security concerns. Will this signal deeper diplomatic concern or lead to stronger security assurances from the government?

In Borno State, an airstrike killed civilians. Nigeria's military has defended the operation. Can the authorities balance security operations with civilian protection and trust?

Ghana has denied reports of plans to host an EU military base. Will this be enough to calm concerns about foreign military presence in the region?

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The Palm Sunday attacks in Jos killed at least 28 people, and this week, attacks in other locations, including in Niger State, have killed up to 60 people. Will increased security interventions be enough to restore calm and prevent further violence?

Afreximbank has launched a $10 billion support facility while successfully raising an additional $2 billion to strengthen trade and economic resilience across Africa amid the Iran War. Will these financial interventions translate into tangible economic recovery for African economies?

A growing trade dispute between Nigeria and Ghana has disrupted onion shipments and prompted calls for Ghana to suspend tomato imports, escalating tensions in regional agricultural trade. Can diplomatic engagement resolve the standoff before it significantly impacts food supply and prices?

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President Tinubu led the charge to strengthen ties with the United Kingdom through a historic visit. How will this deal balance improved trade efficiency with concerns about reliance on UK-linked funding terms?

The Central Bank of Nigeria has tightened BVN and remittance rules while banks raised ₦4.61 trillion. How will these measures impact financial inclusion and customer access to banking services?

Tensions between South Africa and the US are rising over foreign policy disagreements, even as global shipping disruptions boost South African ports. Can Pretoria balance diplomatic strain with the economic gains from rerouted trade?

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