Makinde becomes APM candidate, Obi assures Kwankwaso partnership role

Nigeria's electoral landscape for 2027 is becoming increasingly fragmented. Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, is now the APM's presidential candidate and promises economic reforms and hope for the country. Makinde thus competes against established candidates such as Peter Obi, who leads the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Obi is meanwhile strengthening his coalition: He assured Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso that as vice president he will be a genuine partner and not a "spare tyre". Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement and NDC vice-presidential candidate, expressed optimism about Obi's chances of victory. The NDC presented its consensus candidates in Kano, indicating a coordinated campaign.

APC and smaller parties mobilise

Meanwhile, the ruling APC party is repositioning itself: APC National Secretary Ajibola Bashiru emphasised that the party is not anti-worker and respects civil servants, apparently a response to criticism from trade union circles. Smaller parties are also mobilising: Aliyu Bin Abbas, former adviser to Atiku Abubakar, has been chosen as the ADP's presidential candidate and is campaigning with a focus on youth participation.

Similar trends are evident at gubernatorial level. Rotimi Babajide, APM candidate in Ogun, pledged inclusive and transparent governance with citizen-centred policies. The candidate landscape is thus broadening, while the major coalitions – NDC around Obi, APC and the rising APM – are consolidating their structures.