2027 elections: Minister backs Tinubu’s retention of Shettima as vice president

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has said he was backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

The minister described the move as a strategic step that would strengthen the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the polls.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Kyari said President Tinubu’s decision reflected confidence in Vice President Shettima’s competence, loyalty and leadership.

He said it would reinforce stability and continuity in the administration’s drive to deliver on its development agenda.

The minister also declared that the APC remains a formidable and stronger party that cannot be defeated at the polls, expressing confidence that Nigerians would overwhelmingly re-elect the ruling party in the forthcoming general elections.

“I am deeply grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for once again placing trust in the capable and visionary leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima,” Kyari said.

According to him, Shettima’s re-nomination is a testament to his competence, merit and unwavering loyalty to the President, noting that the Vice President has played a significant role in advancing the administration’s priorities.

Kyari praised President Tinubu for his confidence in Shettima, describing the vice president’s re-nomination as a major boost to the APC’s electoral prospects.

He said Shettima’s “intellect, administrative acumen, and steadfast support and loyalty” have been instrumental in driving key national initiatives, particularly in agriculture, food security and economic reforms.

The minister further stated that the close working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima has produced measurable gains in strengthening Nigeria’s social and economic stability.

Reaffirming his commitment to the administration, Kyari pledged to intensify efforts toward the successful implementation of the government’s agricultural and food security programmes.

He also urged Nigerians, especially stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, to continue supporting the administration’s initiatives aimed at achieving food self-sufficiency and sustainable national development.

Kyari expressed optimism that the APC would secure victory in the 2027 presidential election, insisting that the ruling party remains united and well-positioned to win the confidence of Nigerians at the ballot box.