The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, marking an early start to preparations for Nigeria’s next major electoral cycle.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, CON. The timetable was also confirmed to have been signed by the APC National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, OFR.
The document outlines key activities that will guide the party’s internal election process ahead of the 2027 general elections. These include timelines for screening of aspirants, handling of appeals, and the conduct of party primaries across different elective positions.
According to the party, the schedule also provides clear directives on the sale of nomination forms and expression of interest forms for aspirants who wish to contest under the APC platform.
Although the 2027 general elections are still more than a year away, political parties in Nigeria often begin early preparations to avoid last-minute rush and internal disagreements. The release of the timetable by the APC is seen as part of efforts to strengthen its internal structures and prepare for what is expected to be a highly competitive election season.
In Nigeria’s political system, general elections are usually held every four years, covering positions such as President, Governors, members of the National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly. Before the main election, political parties conduct primaries to choose their candidates.
The process is often closely watched because it can determine the strength and unity of a party going into the general elections. In the past, disputes arising from primaries have sometimes led to court cases, defections, and internal crises within political parties.
In its statement, the APC assured its members, stakeholders, and Nigerians of its commitment to conducting what it described as credible and transparent primaries.
The party said the aim is to further strengthen internal democracy and maintain its progressive ideals. It also stressed that the guidelines in the timetable are meant to ensure order, fairness, and discipline throughout the selection process.
The APC, which is Nigeria’s ruling party, came into power in 2015 and has remained one of the dominant political forces in the country. Over the years, it has faced both internal and external challenges, including competition from opposition parties and occasional disputes among its members.
Despite these challenges, the party has continued to maintain a strong presence at both federal and state levels.
While full details of the timetable were not made public in the statement, it was confirmed that it includes key stages of the election process within the party.
These stages typically include:
Sale of nomination and expression of interest forms
Screening of aspirants seeking party tickets
Handling of appeals from dissatisfied candidates
Conduct of party primaries for various positions
Final selection of candidates for the general elections
In Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is responsible for conducting general elections, but political parties play a key role in selecting candidates who eventually appear on the ballot.
The APC is expected to face strong competition from other major parties as the 2027 elections approach. Political activities have already begun to increase across the country, with politicians building alliances, strengthening their support bases, and preparing for internal party contests.
Early release of election timetables is not new in Nigerian politics. Parties often use it to signal readiness, show organisation, and prepare members for upcoming political activities.
The APC said it remains committed to ensuring that its internal processes are fair and transparent. It added that a well-organised primary system will help produce strong candidates who can represent the party effectively in the 2027 general elections.
The statement also called on members of the party to remain committed and follow the guidelines as outlined in the timetable.
As the political atmosphere gradually builds up ahead of 2027, attention is expected to shift increasingly to party activities, internal elections and preparations that will shape Nigeria’s next general election cycle.