Evangelist Comrade Tony Akeni has formally accepted his appointment as Spokesperson of the Big Tent Independent Campaign Council and as a member of the Elevate Nigeria Rapid Response Team.
He conveyed his acceptance in a letter dated November 4, 2026, addressed to Prof. Pat Utomi, Convener of the Big Tent Council and the Rapid Response Team.
Akeni thanked the leadership for the confidence reposed in him through the dual appointments.
He pledged to discharge his duties in line with the established guidelines and directives of the organisations, and to uphold the values, principles and objectives of the Council and the Elevate Nigeria initiative.
He stressed the importance of institutional guidance and effective communication, and requested an official operational manual setting out the Council’s approved positions on public affairs, policy issues, political campaigns and communication protocols.
Such a document, he said, would ensure consistency in public messaging and in the presentation of the Council’s positions on issues of national importance.
He added that he is ready to work with the available support structures, resources and tools to deliver on the expectations attached to the appointments.
In the appointment letter, Prof. Utomi described the Big Tent as a purpose-driven, transformative platform that aims not only to help determine election outcomes in Nigeria but also to shape policy direction towards rapid economic growth and social harmony.
He said Akeni’s engagement and public service showed the communication judgment, credibility, responsiveness and commitment needed to represent the Big Tent in public discourse.
As Spokesperson, Akeni will articulate the Council’s approved positions on political, policy, campaign and public-interest matters. He will monitor media coverage, flag issues that need clarification, rebuttal or escalation, and help prepare talking points, statements and briefings.
He will also work closely with the Media Team and the Rapid Response Team, and report to them regularly on engagements held and issues handled.
Under the terms of the appointment, spokespersons are to communicate only approved positions, verify facts before commenting publicly, and coordinate on sensitive or fast-moving matters.
The appointment runs through the 2027 electoral cycle, unless reviewed, reconstituted or otherwise directed by the Big Tent leadership.
His acceptance comes as political engagements and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections gather pace, with political groups and campaign organisations strengthening their communication and rapid-response structures.
