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President Bola Tinubu is reportedly assessing four northern Christian leaders, including Matthew Kukah and Yakubu Dogara, as potential running mates for the 2027 election. Fresh reports on January 18, 2026, indicate the ruling APC seeks to replace the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket with a more inclusive religious balance to secure northern support.
Fresh political talks indicate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is quietly checking four prominent northern Christian leaders as possible running mates for the 2027 presidential election.
Sources across print and online media confirm that the President’s inner circle is currently looking at these options to balance religion and geography within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
This political strategy shift comes just weeks after the administration made key changes in other sectors, such as when Tinubu nominates new oil regulators after NMDPRA chief steps down, signaling a broader refreshing of his team.
The four names in circulation
Insiders identify former Speaker Yakubu Dogara and Defence Minister Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd) as top contenders for the slot.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, also appear on the list of potential choices.
General Musa has gained significant political capital recently due to his handling of national defence.
Recent reports on insecurity 5 key details regarding Tinubus US helicopter deal highlight how the Defence Minister has strengthened ties with global partners, making him a strong asset for the ticket.
Analysts note that all four potential picks come from the predominantly Christian parts of the north, which fits the party’s new inclusion strategy.
Balancing the ticket
President Tinubu aims to address lingering criticism of the Muslim–Muslim ticket the APC used to win the 2023 elections.
That previous choice drew sharp focus both within and outside Nigeria, with U.S. officials frequently encouraging more inclusive representation in federal governance.
The 1999 Constitution gives the APC standard-bearer the freedom to select a running mate from any part of the country.
However, political experts argue that moving to a mixed-faith ticket would calm tensions and unite various voting blocks ahead of the next cycle.
ValidUpdates understands that while no final decision exists yet, the screening process is active and serious.
