Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election and the future of healthcare in the country

Abstract

On February 25, 2023, Nigerians took a step forward as a democratic state by voting for a new president. The election is history as the ruling party’s candidate, Bola Tinubu, was declared the winner. He polled 37% of the vote, his main rival Abubakar Atiku garnered 29%, and Labour's Peter Obi 25%. Only 27% of registered voters came out to vote. International election observers noted that the election lacked transparency and was marred by logistical challenges and multiple incidents of political violence. The currency and fuel shortages in the country burdened many voters and election officials and therefore marginalised many groups, especially women, who continue to face barriers to political office. The outcome of the election is in contention and inconclusive. The aggrieved parties have taken their case to court, so the nation awaits the outcome of the court decision. In this Editorial, AJRH analyses the prospects and implications of Tinubu's presidency for healthcare in Nigeria.