A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Special Adviser on Political Affairs to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Prof. Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, has described the renomination of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the party’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election as a strategic decision that will promote unity and strengthen the ruling party’s chances at the polls.
Alkali, in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Shettima as his running mate was one of the most significant steps taken by the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
It would be recalled that the Presidency last Friday formally announced President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima as the APC’s presidential and vice-presidential flag bearers for the forthcoming election, effectively putting to rest months of speculation over the composition of the party’s ticket.
Congratulating the Vice President on his renomination, Alkali said the development reflected President Tinubu’s confidence in Shettima’s loyalty, competence, diligence and commitment to the successful implementation of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“I wish to warmly convey my special congratulations to His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on his re-nomination by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as the Vice Presidential candidate of our great party for the 2027 General Elections,” he stated.
According to him, the nomination was also a recognition of the productive working relationship that has existed between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima since the administration came into office in May 2023.
“By renewing this partnership, President Tinubu has further demonstrated confidence and trust in a team that has worked together in navigating the complex challenges of governance. Continuity and stability in leadership often inspire confidence among party members, supporters and the Nigerian electorate, while reinforcing the administration’s commitment to seeing through its programmes and reforms,” he said.
Alkali described Shettima as an accomplished statesman, experienced public servant and consensus-builder whose contributions have enriched governance and strengthened the administration’s engagement with stakeholders across the country.
“Vice President Kashim Shettima has, undoubtedly, distinguished himself as an able statesman, experienced public servant, accomplished administrator and bridge-builder. His intellectual depth, calm disposition, strategic insight and capacity for consensus-building, especially in moments of daunting national challenges, have continued to enrich governance and strengthen the administration’s engagement with diverse stakeholders across the country,” he added.
The former presidential adviser further argued that retaining Shettima on the ticket would help consolidate the gains of the Tinubu administration while boosting internal cohesion within the APC.
“The President’s decision to retain Vice President Shettima as his running mate at this critical time is, in my view, one of the most consequential and strategic decisions taken in preparation for the 2027 elections. It consolidates an already tested partnership, promotes unity within the party and strengthens the APC’s prospects as it prepares to seek a renewed mandate from the Nigerian people,” he stated.
Alkali also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom and good health for the Vice President as he continues to serve the nation.
“On behalf of my family, friends, political associates and well-wishers, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON. I pray that Almighty Allah grants him continued good health, wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he continues to serve our dear nation with dedication and distinction.”
