Vice President Kashim Shettima submitted President Bola Tinubu's nomination forms for the 2027 presidential election on Tuesday, formalising the government's intention to seek a second term. Tinubu had picked up the expression of interest and nomination forms the previous week, signalling his readiness to contest the next election.
The submission marks a critical step in the timeline for the 2027 race, with political parties beginning to process candidates ahead of the official campaign season. Tinubu's decision to run again comes as his administration enters its final stretch, having been in office since May 2023.
The move was widely expected within government circles and among the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party. Several party officials and governors had publicly called on Tinubu to seek re-election, arguing that he needed more time to implement his economic reform agenda.
Tinubu's first term has been marked by controversial policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, which sent inflation soaring and deepened the cost of living crisis. The administration has also faced criticism over insecurity, with kidnappings and banditry continuing across multiple regions despite security operations. His supporters credit him with setting the foundation for long-term economic recovery, while critics say the pain has been unbearable for ordinary Nigerians.
The 2027 election will see various political parties field candidates in what is expected to be a competitive race. Other parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), are also likely to announce their candidates in the coming months as the electoral calendar progresses.
