Tinubu may pick Musa, Kukah, two others as running mate in 2027

Tinubu may pick Musa, Kukah, two others as running mate in 2027

Tinubu’s 2027 Running Mate Calculations

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political strategy for the 2027 elections has begun to attract significant attention, particularly with speculation surrounding his choice of running mate.

According to reports, Tinubu is considering a shortlist that includes Defence Minister Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, alongside two other unnamed figures.

The inclusion of Musa, a retired military officer currently serving as Defence Minister, signals Tinubu’s interest in projecting strength and stability in matters of national security. Musa’s military background and his role in government could appeal to voters who prioritize safety and defense in a period marked by persistent security challenges.

Bishop Kukah’s name on the list is particularly striking. Known for his outspoken views on governance and social justice, Kukah represents a moral and religious voice that could broaden Tinubu’s appeal across diverse constituencies. His inclusion would be unconventional, as religious leaders rarely transition into partisan politics, but it underscores Tinubu’s willingness to consider figures who embody credibility and moral authority.

Yakubu Dogara, the former Speaker, brings legislative experience and political balance to the table. His presence on the shortlist suggests Tinubu’s recognition of the importance of parliamentary expertise and the ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape. 

Dogara’s northern roots could also help consolidate support in key regions, reinforcing Tinubu’s broader electoral strategy.

The two other unnamed individuals reportedly under consideration remain undisclosed, but their identities are expected to reflect Tinubu’s balancing act between political pragmatism, regional representation, and coalition-building. 

The speculation highlights the delicate calculations required in Nigerian politics, where ethnic, religious, and regional dynamics play decisive roles in shaping electoral outcomes.

This emerging narrative demonstrates Tinubu’s attempt to craft a ticket that resonates across multiple constituencies, blending political experience, military credibility, and moral authority.

While the final decision remains uncertain, the shortlist itself reveals the president’s awareness of the symbolic and strategic weight his running mate will carry in the 2027 contest.