2027: Replacing Shettima Would Have Weakened APC’s Stability – Presidency
The Presidency has defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election, describing the move as essential to preserving the stability and unity of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, said the decision reflects the President’s confidence in Shettima’s loyalty, competence, and contributions since the administration took office in 2023.
In a commentary titled “2027: Tinubu-Shettima and the Politics of Loyalty, Capacity, Continuity,” Nkwocha stated that retaining Shettima has ended months of speculation surrounding the vice president’s future and reaffirmed the partnership that delivered victory for the APC in the 2023 presidential election.
He argued that replacing the vice president could have triggered unnecessary tension within the ruling party and provided opposition parties with an opportunity to exploit perceived divisions.
According to Nkwocha, Shettima has consistently demonstrated commitment to the administration through his leadership of the National Economic Council, where he has coordinated discussions on economic reforms, food security, infrastructure, agriculture, digital innovation, nutrition, and development across the states.
He also highlighted Shettima’s experience as a former governor of Borno State and former senator, noting that his political background has strengthened the administration and reinforced the APC’s support in northern Nigeria.
Nkwocha maintained that the President’s decision rewards loyalty, consistency, and performance while ensuring continuity in governance by keeping a deputy already familiar with the administration’s policies and priorities.
Despite expressing confidence in the APC’s chances in the 2027 election, he stressed that retaining Shettima alone would not guarantee victory. He said the party must still convince Nigerians through tangible achievements and effective governance.
He concluded that with the presidential ticket now settled, attention should shift from political speculation to the administration’s performance and its ability to deliver meaningful results for Nigerians.
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