Vice President Kashim Shettima has led All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders and members in Borno State to the party’s governorship primary, where Engr. Mustapha Gubio emerged as the consensus candidate for the 2027 elections. The affirmation ceremony took place in Maiduguri, with Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and key party stakeholders in attendance.
Speaking after the event, VP Shettima urged party members to set aside differences and work together for the overall victory of the APC in Borno and beyond. He stressed that unity and discipline are essential if the party is to deliver on its promise of economic growth, improved security, and better governance for Nigerians.
“Whatever we do here is part of the broader agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to ensure a better future for Nigeria and Nigerians – one I believe will set the nation on a clear course for prosperity. The time has come to walk the talk, and only credible leaders can make this unfold into a pleasant reality for the citizens,” Shettima said.
The Vice President called on stakeholders to bury hatchets and commit fully to the success of the party, noting that power ultimately comes from God. He described the emergence of Gubio as a reflection of the APC’s commitment to presenting credible candidates who can consolidate on current gains and drive development in Borno State.
Governor Zulum, in his remarks, thanked President Tinubu and VP Shettima for providing an enabling environment for a rancour-free primary process. He said the consensus choice of Gubio was not the result of political manoeuvring but the will of Allah and the outcome of extensive consultations among party leaders.
Engr. Mustapha Gubio, who emerged unopposed, pledged to build on Governor Zulum’s achievements in education, agriculture, infrastructure, and the reconstruction of communities affected by insurgency. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, VP Shettima, and Governor Zulum for their support and promised to lead with the fear of God if elected in 2027.
The ceremony was presided over by the Borno APC primary election committee chairman, Chief Emma Eneukwu, at the defunct Kashim Ibrahim College of Education in Maiduguri. Party leaders described the process as a demonstration of internal democracy and cohesion within the APC in Borno State.
With Gubio now confirmed as the party’s flagbearer, the APC in Borno is positioning itself for a strong showing in the 2027 governorship race, aligning with the federal government’s broader agenda for stability and development.
