The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of presidential candidates and their running mates for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, formally identifying 18 political parties contesting the country’s highest political office.
The list was published on September 12, 2026, in Abuja and signed by INEC Secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony. It features prominent political figures, including incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Other candidates include Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress (AAC), Donald Duke of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Sandy Ojang Onor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to the published list, 16 of the presidential candidates are men, while two are women: Ada Elizabeth Fredrick Okwori of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and Nkem Esther Okereke of the National Rescue Movement (NRM). The list also identifies four female vice-presidential candidates among the 18 running mates.
The publication is an important milestone in the electoral process because it gives voters an official reference for identifying the candidates and parties seeking their support. It also provides the public with an opportunity to examine the candidates’ details as preparations for the elections continue.
The presidential contest is expected to attract considerable national attention, particularly as Nigerians assess the performance of the current administration and the alternatives offered by opposition parties.
INEC is responsible for organising and supervising federal and state elections in Nigeria. The 2027 general elections will determine the country’s next president and vice president, as well as members of the National Assembly and other elected offices. Voters are encouraged to consult official INEC publications for verified candidate information and election updates.
