2027 Presidential Candidates and Their Running Mates

On August 1, 2026, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) published the details of all presidential candidates for the upcoming January 16, 2027, election, including their vice-presidential nominees. The selection of a running mate is a significant aspect of Nigerian politics, often determining the success of candidates in executive elections.

Political analysts note that candidates typically choose running mates to appeal to constituencies they do not already command, focusing on factors such as state of origin, region, ethnicity, religion, and political influence. For instance, Bola Tinubu, a Muslim from Lagos State, has retained Kashim Shettima, a Muslim from Borno State, as his running mate for the 2027 election.

In contrast, Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress, a Muslim from the North, selected Rotimi Amaechi, a Christian from the South. Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, a Christian from the South, chose Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a Muslim from the North, while Seyi Makinde of the Allied Peoples Movement, a Christian from the South, picked Ibrahim Adamu Bala, a Muslim from Bauchi State.