Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reported decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, describing the move as a demonstration of confidence, political stability, and continuity within the ruling party.
The party leader said the Tinubu-Shettima partnership has remained effective since both leaders assumed office in May 2023, arguing that preserving the ticket would strengthen the APC’s chances in the next general election while reinforcing unity among party members.
According to the APC stalwart, the President’s confidence in Shettima reflects the vice president’s contributions to governance and his support for the administration’s policy direction. He noted that the current leadership structure has provided stability at a time when Nigeria is implementing major economic reforms and addressing security challenges.
The chieftain maintained that changing the vice-presidential candidate ahead of the next election could create unnecessary political distractions, insisting that continuity would allow the administration to remain focused on governance while preparing for another electoral contest.
He further urged APC members to avoid internal divisions and instead rally behind the Tinubu administration’s programmes aimed at improving the economy, expanding infrastructure, creating jobs, and strengthening national security.
The endorsement comes amid increasing political discussions over the composition of the APC’s presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. While President Tinubu has received several endorsements from party leaders and governors to seek a second term, debates have continued over whether the current ticket should remain unchanged.
Political analysts say such endorsements are expected as parties gradually begin consultations ahead of the next electoral cycle. However, they also point out that the selection of a presidential running mate remains an internal party matter and will only become official after the APC conducts its nomination process.
Since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima have jointly overseen policies aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s economy. These include the removal of fuel subsidies, reforms in the foreign exchange market, efforts to attract investment, and initiatives designed to improve agricultural productivity and infrastructure development.
The administration has also continued to face criticism over the rising cost of living and inflation, prompting government officials to defend ongoing reforms as necessary steps toward achieving long-term economic stability. Supporters of the administration argue that maintaining the existing leadership team would ensure consistency in implementing these policies.
The APC chieftain emphasized that Shettima’s experience as a former governor of Borno State and former senator has continued to benefit the administration. He said the vice president has played important roles in government engagements, investment promotion, and intergovernmental coordination since assuming office.
He also described the Tinubu-Shettima partnership as one that reflects national inclusion, noting that the two leaders have continued to work together despite political speculation regarding the 2027 elections.
Political observers believe discussions surrounding the next presidential election are likely to intensify as parties begin consultations and strategic planning. Although the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not yet commenced the formal process for the 2027 presidential election, political endorsements and declarations have continued to dominate public discourse.
Despite the growing endorsements, neither the Presidency nor the APC has formally announced the vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 election. Analysts therefore caution against treating individual endorsements as official party decisions.
They argue that while expressions of support from influential party members may shape internal discussions, the APC will ultimately determine its presidential ticket through its constitutionally recognised nomination procedures.
The latest endorsement nonetheless highlights the desire among some members of the ruling party to preserve what they describe as a successful political partnership between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of 2027, observers expect more stakeholders within the APC and opposition parties to declare their positions on leadership, governance, and electoral strategy. For now, however, attention remains focused on the Tinubu administration’s performance and its ability to address the country’s economic and security concerns before Nigerians return to the polls.
Sources:
- Daily Post Nigeria
- The Nation Nigeria
- Vanguard
- Channels Television
