Jul 10, 2026

APC Retains Shettima as Tinubu’s Running Mate for 2027 Presidential Election

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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ABUJA, Nigeria — In a decisive move that ends months of intense political speculation, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally retained Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 general elections.

The party received the presidential nomination forms for both leaders during a high-profile ceremony on Friday, July 10, 2026.

The event, held at the Continental Hotel in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, saw APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda receive the forms on behalf of the party.

They were presented by President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Political and Other Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Masari.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent APC figures and state governors, signaling broad support within the ruling party. Key attendees included:

- Senator Hope Uzodimma, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum

- Hon. Mai Mala Buni, Yobe State Governor

- Dr. Nasir Idris, Kebbi State Governor

- Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State Governor

- Senator Uba Sani, Kaduna State Governor

- Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, Borno State Governor

- Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Adamawa State Governor

Senior party leaders and stakeholders were also present, underscoring a united front ahead of the polls.

This development puts to rest widespread rumors and internal lobbying about a potential change in the vice-presidential slot.

Many political observers had speculated about alternative candidates, but the APC leadership has chosen continuity with the Tinubu-Shettima ticket that secured victory in 2023.

Retaining Shettima, a former Borno State Governor and influential North-East figure, is widely seen as a strategic calculation to maintain regional balance, consolidate northern support, and project stability.

The Muslim-Muslim ticket that defined the 2023 campaign remains intact, a factor that continues to spark debate across Nigeria’s diverse political landscape.

The formal submission of nomination forms marks an important milestone in the APC’s preparation for the 2027 presidential race.

With INEC yet to release the full election timetable, this early move demonstrates the ruling party’s organizational readiness and confidence in its leadership pair.

Social media erupted with mixed reactions following the announcement. Supporters celebrated the decision as proof of a “winning team,” while critics questioned the implications for national unity and fresh leadership.

Opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and others, are already positioning their own tickets as the race for 2027 intensifies.

For President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, the retention signals a commitment to completing their reform agenda amid ongoing economic challenges.

As Nigerians continue to grapple with cost-of-living issues, infrastructure needs, and security concerns, the 2027 contest is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in the country’s democratic history.

The APC’s swift confirmation of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket sets the stage for what promises to be a vigorous campaign season.

Political analysts will be watching closely to see how this decision influences party primaries, alliance-building, and voter sentiment in the months ahead.

As the nation looks toward 2027, questions of continuity versus change, performance versus promise, and unity versus diversity will dominate conversations from Abuja to the grassroots.

For now, the ruling party has made its choice clear.