The All Progressives Grand Alliance has announced May 23, 2027, as the date for its presidential primary election ahead of Nigeria’s next general polls.
The party also revealed that its presidential nomination form will cost ₦75 million, a figure that reflects the growing financial demands of contesting for the nation’s top office.
According to party officials, the timetable is part of early preparations aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent candidate selection process.
The schedule outlines key activities leading up to the primaries, including the sale of nomination forms, screening of aspirants, and internal consultations among stakeholders.
APGA noted that the high cost of the presidential ticket aligns with prevailing trends among major political parties in Nigeria, where nomination fees have steadily increased over recent election cycles.
Party leaders argue that the fee is necessary to manage the number of aspirants and ensure that only serious contenders participate in the race.
However, the announcement has already sparked debate among political observers and members of the public, with some criticizing the rising cost of participation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Critics say such high fees could discourage credible but less financially endowed candidates from contesting, thereby limiting inclusiveness and internal party democracy.
Supporters of the decision, on the other hand, maintain that political campaigns require substantial funding and that aspirants must demonstrate capacity to mobilize resources.
The development comes as political activities gradually begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties repositioning and strategizing for what is expected to be a highly competitive contest.
APGA, which has traditionally maintained a strong base in the South-East, is expected to use the primaries to project a candidate capable of expanding its national appeal.
Analysts believe that early release of the timetable could give aspirants more time to build structures, engage delegates, and articulate policy positions.
The party also emphasized its commitment to conducting credible primaries in line with electoral guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
As preparations intensify, attention is likely to shift to other political parties and the fees they will set for their own nomination forms.
For now, APGA’s announcement signals the beginning of another election cycle, with stakeholders closely watching how internal party processes will shape the broader political landscape in Nigeria.
