November 10, (THEWILL) – The recent 2024 American presidential election, which saw the return of Donald Trump to the White House as the 47th President, offers valuable insights into the dynamics that can shape electoral outcomes in countries with similar democratic challenges, such as Nigeria. Three critical factors contributed to Trump’s victory: economic dissatisfaction with the incumbent administration, the strategic use of divisive political rhetoric, and the transparency of the electoral process. Understanding how these elements played out in the American context can provide a roadmap for Nigeria as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
In Nigeria, economic dissatisfaction, divisive political discourse and electoral irregularities have long been major hurdles to good governance and democratic stability.
The economic crisis fueled by inflation, high unemployment, currency devaluation and fuel subsidy removal has eroded public trust in the government’s ability to address the real needs of citizens. This discontent mirrors the sentiments that propelled Trump’s success in the United States, where many voters felt the Joe Biden – Kamala Harris administration was out of touch with their day-to-day financial struggles.
Similarly, Nigerian politicians’ employment of divisive ethnic and religious rhetoric to rally their support bases has deepened societal divisions and undermined national unity, much like the polarising tactics used by Trump and his allies. This approach has created a fragmented political landscape where loyalty to regional or sectarian allegiances often trumps concerns for broader national progress.
Compounding these challenges, Nigeria’s electoral process has long been plagued by allegations of fraud, voter suppression and violence. The 2007, 2019, 2023 elections and subsequent staggered polls in States such as Edo State, were no exception, with reports of malpractices aided by electoral officers and legal disputes casting doubt on the credibility of the outcomes. This erosion of public trust in the democratic process echoes the post-2020 election controversies in the United States, which the 2024 contest sought to address through enhanced transparency and procedural reforms.
The 2024 American election offers several valuable lessons that Nigeria can draw upon to strengthen its own democratic institutions and processes ahead of the 2027 polls. First, the emphasis on secure, transparent voting technology and independent oversight helped address some distrust in the electoral process in America. In Nigeria, investing in similar technology and setting up neutral oversight bodies could help curb fraud and increase voter confidence. Additionally, a focused effort on encouraging voter turnout in the U.S. by removing barriers to voting—through mail-in ballots, early voting and robust voter education campaigns—proved effective. For Nigeria, restoring confidence in the system through transparency and accountability, simplifying the voting process, expanding voter registration and educating citizens on the importance of participating in elections could counteract voter apathy.
Moreover, the American election demonstrated the value of clear legal guidelines on handling electoral disputes. By establishing and enforcing transparent protocols, Nigeria could reduce the litigious nature of its elections, ensuring smoother transitions and less volatility. These reforms, supported by strong civic education and an inclusive political environment, could be essential in preparing Nigeria for a fairer and more credible elections that will come between now and the general elections in 2027 by which time Nigerians will be fully confident that their votes will count.
To mitigate the economic discontent that fueled Trump’s uccess, I urge the Nigerian Government to commit to comprehensive reforms that address the root causes of inflation, unemployment, and inequality. Enabling an environment that encourages investments in domestic agriculture, infrastructure, curbing insecurity and power supply could help alleviate the cost-of-living pressures
that have eroded public trust. Transparent and effective implementation of these policies, with clear communication to the citizenry, will be crucial in restoring confidence in the government’s ability to manage the economy.
Nigerian political leaders must also resist the temptation to employ divisive narratives that appeal to ethnic, regional or religious loyalties. Instead, they should prioritise policy-driven
discourse that focuses on addressing the genuine concerns of all Nigerians in ways that put food on their tables and monies in their pockets, regardless of their background. Fostering a more inclusive political environment, where diverse voices are heard and represented, can help bridge the societal divisions that continue to undermine national unity.
It cannot be hard to see that most Nigerians whether living at home or abroad seek a country that is progressive and works well for everyone, irrespective of tribe or gender. We can start rebuilding by drawing on the American experience by prioritising reforms that enhance the transparency, accessibility, and security of the electoral process. When we get our electoral process right, where the will of the people prevail at the polls, we will begin to witness the journey to a prosperous country where the best of our people seek elective office and in turn deliver economic prosperity for all.
We are all hurting from the current economic crisis and the government at all levels should urgently address the major issues behind the crisis re: Insecurity, stunted crude oil production, corruption and low food production amongst others.
