Nigeria: INEC publishes final list of 18 candidates for the 2027 presidential election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria published the final list of 18 candidates for the January 2027 presidential election and their running mates on Saturday, September 12. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is listed under the APC banner, alongside Atiku Abubakar for the ADC and Peter Obi for the NDC.

The official document, signed by INEC Secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony, associates Bola Tinubu with Kashim Shettima, Atiku Abubakar with Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi with Rabiu Kwankwaso. Omoyele Sowore represents the AAC, Seyi Makinde the APM, and Donald Duke the PRP.

Two women lead presidential tickets among the 18 selected candidates. They are Ada Elizabeth Frederick Okwori for the NDP and Nkem Esther Okereke for the NRM. The list also includes four women candidates for the vice presidency.

The publication formalizes an electoral landscape already marked by several realignments. Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi had announced their entry into the race under the ADC banner, while Tinubu seeks a second term.

The outgoing head of state began his electoral campaign in early September. Bénin Web TV had then detailed the initial priorities highlighted by Bola Tinubu in anticipation of the election.

According to the current schedule displayed by INEC, the presidential election and the National Assembly elections are set for January 16, 2027. The elections for governors and state assemblies are to follow on February 6, 2027.