Despite rising political scheming and manoeuvres by certain factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) aiming to replace Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appears steadfast in his support for his current deputy, reliable sources have revealed to Vanguard.
Speculations have been rife over a shortlist of six notable APC figures from the North — specifically the Northeast and Northwest — who are being touted as potential running mates for Tinubu in the next presidential race. The names include former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago; Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani; Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya; and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara.
Insiders pushing for Ribadu’s candidacy argue that his nomination could position him as Tinubu’s natural successor in 2031, when power may shift back to the North. Abdulaziz Yari is considered due to his longstanding loyalty to Tinubu and vocal defense of the president on various national matters. On the other hand, proponents of Dogara cite his Christian background as a way to rebalance the Muslim-Muslim ticket and ease religious tensions, particularly among Christian communities.
The three sitting governors are being considered for what some APC insiders describe as their impressive leadership performances, which have strengthened the party’s foothold in their respective states and across the northern region.
However, senior aides within the presidency have firmly dismissed the rumours of Tinubu seeking a new running mate. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the speculations as baseless. He emphasized that any talk of a running mate is premature and that it is only after party primaries that such a decision would be relevant. Onanuga added that the concept of swapping vice presidents ahead of an election cycle is still relatively novel in Nigeria’s political landscape and doesn’t warrant undue anxiety.
Sources close to the presidency argue that Vice President Shettima remains one of Tinubu’s strongest political assets. His firm support during Tinubu’s presidential bid — especially at a time when certain APC power brokers allegedly plotted to block his candidacy — is often cited as a significant factor in their enduring alliance. Notably, Shettima served as the Director General of Tinubu’s campaign, showcasing both loyalty and political clout.
“Shettima stood by President Tinubu when others hesitated. He played a critical role during the primaries and has consistently demonstrated loyalty, competence, and political tact,” a source stated.
The source further emphasized Shettima’s strong grassroots base in Borno State, a region where he has never lost an election, and his broader influence in Northern Nigeria. Beyond politics, Shettima is viewed as a bridge-builder and a detribalized leader, with a history of working to defuse regional tensions — such as when he rallied Southeast leaders to calm ethnic threats in the North.
Moreover, the personal bond between the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Vice President’s wife, Hajia Nana Shettima, is believed to be another reason the status quo may remain unchanged. The two women are said to have developed a deep working relationship through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) — a presidential empowerment project focused on improving the lives of women and girls across Nigeria. Hajia Shettima often represents the First Lady at major events and is considered a vital part of the project’s outreach and impact.
In summary, despite political jockeying and the surfacing of alternative names, all indications from credible sources suggest that President Tinubu remains firmly committed to Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 elections. His loyalty, experience, political strength in the North, and close integration with the First Family all make him an indispensable ally to the president.
