President Bola Tinubu has emerged unchallenged as the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress for the 2027 general election, marking a sharp contrast to the intense contest he faced during the party’s 2022 presidential primary.
In the build-up to the 2022 election, Tinubu battled prominent party figures, including Yemi Osinbajo and Rotimi Amaechi, among others, before eventually securing the party’s ticket. However, the political landscape within the APC appears to have changed significantly, with Tinubu now exercising considerable influence within the party structure.
With no visible internal challenge standing in his way, attention has shifted from the presidential ticket itself to a new question: who will emerge as his running mate for the 2027 election?
Political observers believe current Vice President Kashim Shettima remains the strongest candidate to retain the position.
Tinubu’s decision to choose Shettima as his running mate in 2022 generated controversy at the time due to concerns surrounding Nigeria’s religious balance. The Muslim-Muslim ticket drew criticism from groups and individuals who feared it could deepen divisions in the country and fuel claims of an alleged Islamization agenda.
Despite those concerns, analysts suggest the issue has gradually lost its intensity over the course of the administration. Some political commentators now argue that Shettima’s conduct in office has strengthened his position within the government and increased his chances of remaining on the ticket.
Observers describe the vice president as one of the most loyal deputies Nigeria has seen in decades of democratic governance. According to political analysts, Shettima has consistently defended and articulated the administration’s policies and programmes while maintaining a relationship with the president that has remained free of public disagreements or visible political tension.
His understanding of Tinubu’s leadership style is also considered a major advantage. Analysts believe the vice president has carefully aligned himself with the administration’s priorities and has avoided actions that could create friction within the presidency.
Loyalty, often regarded as a critical factor in political relationships, is believed to be one of Shettima’s strongest assets. In Nigeria’s political environment, trust and unwavering support frequently determine the longevity of alliances, and observers say Shettima has so far managed to retain the president’s confidence.
Analysts also note that concerns surrounding the same-faith ticket may have softened, partly due to the public role played by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who is a Christian and a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Some political watchers argue that her visibility and influence within the administration have reduced the strength of claims suggesting any religious agenda within government.
Tinubu, widely regarded as a seasoned political strategist, may also consider replacing Shettima a risky move at a crucial political period. As a former governor and influential northern politician, the vice president is seen as a significant force with an established support base capable of mobilising political backing across parts of northern Nigeria.
Observers have also highlighted the cordial relationship between the First Lady and the vice president’s wife, Hajia Nana Shettima. Their collaboration through the Renewed Hope Initiative has further strengthened ties within the administration.
The initiative, founded by the First Lady, focuses on programmes targeted at women and girls across the country. Hajia Nana Shettima currently serves as the national vice-chairperson and regularly represents Mrs. Tinubu at various outreach programmes and events nationwide.
While political calculations and behind-the-scenes manoeuvring may continue in the coming months, current indicators suggest that retaining Shettima as running mate remains Tinubu’s most likely path as preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum.
Tinubu Poised to Retain Shettima as Running Mate Ahead of 2027 Presidential Election
