The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced May 15 and 16, 2026, as the dates for its presidential primary election, marking a key step in its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The timetable, released in an official statement signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, outlines a series of activities leading up to the primaries, including the sale of nomination forms, screening processes, and appeals.
According to the schedule, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from April 25 to May 2, while submission is expected to close on May 4. Screening of aspirants is slated for May 6 to 8, with results to be published on May 11. Appeals arising from the screening will be handled between May 12 and 13.
Beyond the presidential contest, the party has also fixed dates for other primary elections. The House of Representatives primaries will take place on May 18, followed by the Senate on May 20, State Houses of Assembly on May 21, and governorship primaries on May 23.
The APC also disclosed the cost of forms for aspirants across various positions. Presidential hopefuls are expected to pay a total of ₦100 million, covering ₦30 million for expression of interest and ₦70 million for nomination forms. Governorship aspirants will pay ₦50 million, while fees for other positions vary.
The party noted that female aspirants, youths, and persons with disabilities would receive concessions, paying only for the expression of interest form and 50 percent of the nomination fee for their chosen positions.
The APC stated that the timetable aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), reaffirming its commitment to conducting credible and transparent primaries.
As of now, no aspirant has officially declared interest in the presidential race. However, several party leaders and blocs have already endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, even though he has yet to make a formal declaration.
The announcement sets the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched primary process, as political alignments and endorsements begin to shape the race ahead of 2027.
What you should know
The APC has scheduled its presidential primary for May 15–16, 2026, as part of its roadmap to the 2027 elections.
The timetable includes key activities such as form sales, screening, and appeals, with strict deadlines in place.
Presidential forms cost ₦100 million, while concessions are offered to women, youths, and persons with disabilities. Other primaries for legislative and governorship positions are also scheduled across May. Although no aspirant has officially declared interest, President Bola Tinubu has received endorsements from party leaders.
The process is expected to shape the APC’s strategy and internal dynamics ahead of the next general elections.
