Tinubu, Shettima Retained as APC's 2027 Presidential Ticket
Abayomi Susan
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has reaffirmed its confidence in Vice President Kashim Shettima by retaining him as the running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election.
The decision underscores the party’s commitment to preserving the Tinubu-Shettima ticket that secured victory in the 2023 presidential election and has since led the country’s affairs under the APC administration.
The move is widely viewed as a demonstration of party unity, continuity and confidence in the working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima. It also signals the ruling party’s determination to present a united front ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested 2027 general election.
Political observers say retaining the Vice President eliminates uncertainty over the composition of the presidential ticket and enables the party to concentrate on consolidating its structures, mobilising support across the country and advancing its campaign strategy well ahead of the polls.
Supporters of the decision argue that maintaining the existing ticket reflects the administration’s emphasis on stability and continuity in governance, while also preserving the political partnership that has shaped the APC-led Federal Government since May 2023.
The announcement is expected to energise party loyalists and strengthen preparations for the next electoral cycle, as the APC intensifies consultations with stakeholders and expands its grassroots mobilisation efforts nationwide.
The confirmation of Shettima as President Tinubu’s running mate is also expected to reinforce the APC’s internal cohesion by putting to rest weeks of speculation over the composition of the party’s presidential ticket. Party leaders believe that an early decision on the ticket will allow the APC to focus on strengthening its nationwide campaign structure, engaging stakeholders and consolidating support across the six geopolitical zones.
Political analysts note that the continuity of the Tinubu-Shettima partnership reflects the party’s strategy of projecting stability and consistency ahead of the 2027 general election. They argue that retaining the existing ticket provides the APC with an opportunity to campaign on the administration’s record while presenting a familiar leadership team to the electorate.
With the ruling party settling the issue of its presidential ticket, attention is expected to shift to other political parties, many of which are expected to finalise their candidates and campaign strategies in the months ahead. Political activities are likely to gather momentum across the country as parties intensify consultations, build alliances and unveil policy priorities aimed at winning the confidence of Nigerian voters.
As preparations for the 2027 general election continue, the APC is expected to focus on consolidating its support base while highlighting the achievements and policy direction of the Tinubu administration. The coming months are also expected to witness increased political engagement, consultations and realignments as parties position themselves for what promises to be another closely watched presidential contest.
