Group says retaining Vice President Kashim Shettima would strengthen APC support in the North, amid claims about the party’s 2027 plans
The APC Youth Parliament has expressed support for Vice President Kashim Shettima remaining on the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections, arguing that such a move would strengthen the party’s electoral prospects, particularly in Nigeria’s North-East and across the wider Northern region.
The group’s position was outlined by its Chairman, Kabiru Kobi, during a meeting with journalists in Bauchi on Sunday. Kobi spoke against the backdrop of claims that President Bola Tinubu would retain Shettima as his running mate for the next presidential election. The APC has not formally announced its 2027 presidential and vice-presidential ticket.
Speaking on what he described as the importance of continuity, Kobi said the Shettima 2027 Ticket would reinforce confidence among party supporters and consolidate the APC’s political base in the North.
“This is a clear indication that the Tinubu-Shettima ticket is well-positioned for re-election. Many people across the North-East and the North had keenly awaited the President’s decision, and the retention of Shettima has strengthened confidence in the party,” he said.
Kobi attributed the Vice President’s continued popularity within the party to what he described as his loyalty, competence, patience and commitment to national development.
According to him, Shettima has remained a dependable partner in supporting President Tinubu’s administration and helping to implement its policies and programmes.
“We support Vice President Shettima because we believe he is committed to the progress of the North and Nigeria as a whole.
“We will continue to give him our full support and work towards the success of the APC in 2027,” Kobi added.
The APC Youth Parliament chairman said the responsibility now lies with party members and support groups to mobilise voters and strengthen the party’s grassroots presence ahead of the next general election.
He also maintained that many young people and stakeholders in the North-East regard Shettima as a reliable leader and pledged the group’s commitment to campaigning for the APC across the region.
Kobi expressed optimism that another Tinubu-led administration, if re-elected, would sustain ongoing reforms, accelerate development and create more opportunities for young people and women.
He urged APC leaders and members to remain united and focus on strengthening the party while supporting policies aimed at improving governance and addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
The group further congratulated the Vice President on what it described as his retention and encouraged him to continue contributing to national development. It portrayed Shettima as a patriotic and visionary leader whose resilience and humility continue to inspire many young Nigerians.
The comments come as political discussions surrounding the 2027 general elections continue to gather pace. However, political parties are yet to commence their formal nomination processes, and the APC has not officially unveiled its presidential ticket for the election.