The decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election has been hailed as a strategic move that strengthens the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Northern Nigeria, according to Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, a prominent APC chieftain and Director of Finance at the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority. Kwankwaso, in a statement he personally signed on Saturday, welcomed the move, saying it has boosted confidence among APC members and supporters across the region following the submission of the Tinubu-Shettima nomination forms to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja.
Kwankwaso emphasized that the decision to keep Shettima as vice presidential candidate has not only united the North but also disappointed those who had anticipated a replacement ahead of the 2027 elections. He described the move as the “best development for the North and the APC,” noting that it reinforces party cohesion and enhances electoral prospects. According to him, Shettima’s consistent efforts to promote unity in Northern Nigeria, despite attempts by some to create division, have been commendable and impactful.
The APC chieftain praised Shettima for his role in representing President Tinubu effectively at various international engagements, highlighting his contributions to the administration’s foreign policy outreach. Kwankwaso stressed that Shettima’s loyalty and dedication to the party’s agenda have made him a unifying figure, especially in a region where political stability and unity are critical for electoral success. He expressed confidence that the Tinubu-Shettima ticket will attract massive support from Northern voters during the 2027 general election.
Beyond the presidential race, Kwankwaso believes the decision will positively influence APC candidates contesting governorship, National Assembly, and other elective positions across the North. He argued that retaining Shettima sends a strong message of continuity and commitment to the party’s vision, which will resonate with voters at all levels. “Retaining Shettima is a strategic decision that will further consolidate the APC’s support base in the North and enhance the party’s electoral prospects at all levels,” Kwankwaso stated.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the APC’s leadership in the North is positioning itself for a strong campaign, with the Tinubu-Shettima ticket serving as a cornerstone of their strategy. The decision to retain Shettima is expected to solidify alliances and deepen party loyalty, setting the stage for a competitive electoral battle in Nigeria’s most populous region.
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