The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially confirmed Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, ending months of speculation over a possible change to the party's ticket.

The confirmation followed the submission of the joint presidential nomination forms to the party's National Working Committee (NWC) on Friday, ahead of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadline for nominations. The forms were presented by the President's Special Adviser on Political and Other Matters, Ibrahim Masari, during a meeting at the Continental Hotel in Abuja.

The development puts to rest widespread reports that the ruling party was considering replacing Shettima with a Northern Christian candidate in response to criticisms of the Muslim-Muslim ticket that secured victory in the 2023 presidential election.

By retaining Shettima, the APC has signalled confidence in the Tinubu-Shettima partnership and reaffirmed its commitment to continuity as it prepares for the 2027 general election.

Political observers say the decision is expected to strengthen the party's campaign strategy, particularly in the North-East and North-West, where Shettima is considered influential. It also reflects the APC's intention to campaign on the achievements and continuity of the Tinubu administration's Renewed Hope Agenda while projecting internal unity ahead of the election.

With the APC's presidential ticket now confirmed, attention is expected to shift to opposition parties as they intensify efforts to build alliances and present candidates capable of mounting a strong challenge in the 2027 presidential election.