Ruling Party Formally Submits Joint Presidential Ticket as Nigeria’s 2027 Election Race Takes Shape

ABUJA, Nigeria Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially confirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima as its presidential and vice-presidential candidates for the 2027 general election, ending weeks of speculation over whether the party would retain its current ticket.

The confirmation came after the APC formally submitted its presidential nomination documents ahead of the statutory deadline, making Tinubu and Shettima the party’s official candidates for the January 2027 presidential election. Party officials said the decision reflects confidence in the administration’s record and provides continuity as preparations for the next electoral cycle intensify.

Speculation Over Shettima’s Position Ends

For several months, political observers had speculated that President Tinubu could replace Vice President Shettima with another running mate to broaden the APC’s electoral appeal.

Those rumours intensified following consultations within the ruling party and discussions over regional and political balancing.

However, the APC’s submission of a joint Tinubu–Shettima ticket has effectively settled the issue, confirming that both leaders will seek a second four-year term together.

APC Says Performance Will Be Its Campaign Message

Speaking after the submission, APC officials said the party intends to campaign on the achievements of the Tinubu administration in areas including infrastructure, economic reforms, security, agriculture and investment.

Party spokesperson Felix Morka confirmed that President Tinubu remains the APC’s presidential candidate, while Vice President Shettima retains his position as the party’s vice-presidential nominee.

2027 Political Contest Gains Momentum

The confirmation comes as Nigeria’s major political parties finalize their candidates before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadline.

Opposition parties are also preparing for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most competitive presidential elections since 1999.

Political analysts believe the APC’s early confirmation of its ticket allows the party to focus on nationwide mobilisation while opponents consolidate alliances and campaign structures ahead of the election.

Issues Likely to Dominate the Campaign

The 2027 presidential campaign is expected to centre on:

• Economic reforms and inflation
• Cost of living
• Security and insurgency
• Youth employment
• Power supply
• Infrastructure development
• Education and healthcare
• Foreign investment

Analysts expect all major parties to present competing visions on these issues as Nigerians prepare to elect the country’s next president.

What Happens Next?

With the APC ticket now confirmed, attention shifts to nationwide campaigns, policy debates and the positions of opposition parties before Nigerians head to the polls in January 2027.