The build-up to the 2027 general elections is already reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape, as several outgoing governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepare to move from state executive offices into the National Assembly.
Of the eight APC governors expected to complete their second terms in May 2027, six have reportedly entered the race for Senate seats, having already picked up or submitted their expression of interest and nomination forms ahead of the party’s senatorial primaries scheduled for May 18.
Those in the race include Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara.
In several states, the governors appear to have a relatively smooth path to securing the party’s ticket, as sitting senators have either stepped down or openly endorsed them.
In Adamawa North, Senator Amos Yohanna has withdrawn from the race in support of Governor Fintiri. At a stakeholders’ meeting in Mubi, where the governor received his nomination forms, Yohanna said the decision reflected the collective will of the constituency.
In Yobe East, Governor Mai Mala Buni is also enjoying strong backing after incumbent Senator Musa Mustapha opted not to seek re-election and instead endorsed the governor.
A similar situation is playing out in Kwara State, where Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is expected to enjoy minimal resistance. The current senator for Kwara Central, Salihu Mustapha, is reportedly pursuing a governorship ambition, leaving the senatorial pathway more open for the governor.
However, the political permutations are not without tension in some states.
In Ogun East, Governor Dapo Abiodun is expected to face a tough contest against former Governor and current Senator Gbenga Daniel, setting the stage for a high-stakes primary battle despite endorsements from some local stakeholders.
In Borno Central, Governor Babagana Zulum has also secured nomination forms, but he may encounter resistance from party factions backing Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan for a second term.
In Nasarawa, Governor Abdullahi Sule is targeting the Nasarawa North senatorial seat, which became vacant following the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki in late 2025.
As the APC prepares for its primaries, the unfolding contests highlight an early realignment within the ruling party, with outgoing governors positioning themselves for continued influence at the national level through the Senate.
