Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race has entered a decisive phase, with President Bola Tinubu officially retaining Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate while opposition leaders continue efforts to build a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The APC formally submitted the joint nomination forms of Tinubu and Shettima to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ending months of speculation that the President could replace his deputy ahead of the election. The nomination documents were presented on Tinubu’s behalf by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Ibrahim Masari, during a ceremony attended by APC governors, lawmakers and senior party officials.
The submission confirms that the APC will contest the 2027 presidential election with the same ticket that secured victory in 2023. Party leaders described the decision as a sign of unity and continuity, expressing confidence that the Tinubu-Shettima ticket remains the party’s strongest option for seeking a second term.
Meanwhile, opposition figures are intensifying discussions aimed at presenting a formidable challenge to the APC. Governors and key political stakeholders from opposition parties have continued coalition talks, exploring possible alliances and joint strategies ahead of the election. The negotiations are part of broader efforts to avoid a fragmented opposition vote and improve their chances of unseating the ruling party in 2027.
With candidate nominations gathering pace and political alliances taking shape, analysts expect the coming months to be marked by increased campaigning, negotiations and realignments as parties position themselves for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most competitive presidential elections in recent history.
