The All Progressives Congress (APC) screening committee has cleared eleven incumbent governors who are seeking re‑election in the 2027 general elections. The exercise, which is part of the party’s preparations for its primary elections, will conclude on Saturday, following the main voting day scheduled for Thursday, 21 May.
The screening panel is chaired by APC National Chairman Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, together with National Secretary Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru. The committee’s mandate is to vet governors who intend to contest the party’s ticket for the 2027 presidential and gubernatorial contests, ensuring they meet the party’s criteria for candidacy.
The governors who have successfully passed the screening are:
– Governor Abba Yusuf – Kano State
– Governor Inuwa Yahaya – Gombe State
– Governor Nasir Idris – Kebbi State
– Governor Caleb Muftwang – Plateau State
– Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia – Benue State
– Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru – Ebonyi State
– Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori – Delta State
– Governor Umar Bago – Niger State
– Governor Dauda Lawal – Zamfara State
– Senator Bassey Otu – Cross River State
– Governor Ahmed Aliyu – Sokoto State
The list reflects a mix of seasoned politicians and newer entrants, covering a broad geographic spread across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Their clearance positions them to compete for the APC’s gubernatorial nominations later this year, after the party’s primary elections.
The screening process is a routine step for the APC, aimed at consolidating its slate of candidates ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. Successful candidates will now focus on internal party campaigns, while those not approved will have to consider alternative political pathways.
The upcoming primary elections on 21 May will determine the APC’s nominees for the presidential and state executive seats. The outcome will shape the party’s strategy as it seeks to maintain or expand its dominance in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
