The race for governorship tickets ahead of the 2027 general election is beginning to take shape, with several serving senators already positioning themselves as frontrunners in their states.
The senators, many of whom wield significant political influence and control expansive grassroots structures, are expected to leverage their national visibility, deep pockets, and legislative records to strengthen their chances.
Their early moves have set the stage for intense contests within their parties, as they jostle with sitting governors, influential party chieftains, and other power blocs.
These are the senators likely to battle for governorship seats in their respective states.
UMAR SHEHU BUBA (BAUCHI SOUTH)
The senator representing Bauchi south has never hidden his desire to succeed Bala Mohammed as governor. Buba, chairman of the senate committee on national security and intelligence, is currently the highest-ranking APC political office holder in Bauchi. Analysts say this positions him as a strong favourite for his party’s ticket.
ABDUL NINGI (BAUCHI CENTRAL)
The senator representing Bauchi central is also in the mix. Ningi, a former senate leader and one of the most experienced lawmakers in the 10th assembly, is said to be interested in running for the governorship election. He has reach, political clout, and resources — but whether the governor will support him remains uncertain. Ningi’s closeness to former vice-president Atiku Abubakar is seen as an added advantage.
MOHAMMED TAHIR MONGUNO (BORNO NORTH)
The senator representing Borno north is a top contender in the north-east state. A lawyer and seasoned politician, Monguno is the chief whip of the 10th senate and a former attorney-general of Borno. He enjoys the support of Vice-President Kashim Shettima and belongs to the dominant Kanuri tribe. Insiders say he stands a real chance of succeeding Babagana Zulum, the state governor.
KAKA SHEHU LAWAN (BORNO CENTRAL)
The senator representing Borno central is also a big factor in the state. A senior advocate of Nigeria and one of the youngest senators, Lawan is a former commissioner of justice and a close ally of the vice-president. His youth appeal and loyalty to Shettima are considered key strengths in his ambition to replace Zulum.
BARAU JIBRIN (KANO NORTH)
The deputy senate president is seen as the strongest APC politician capable of challenging the Kwankwassiya movement. Since emerging as deputy senate president, Barau has pulled defectors from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) into the APC, positioning himself to take on Abba Yusuf, the governor. With cracks appearing in the NNPP and support from President Bola Tinubu, Barau is tipped as a formidable challenger in 2027.
SALIU MUSTAPHA (KWARA CENTRAL)
The senator representing Kwara central and chairman of the senate committee on agriculture is believed to be nurturing governorship ambitions. The 52-year-old Turaki of Ilorin has already clashed politically with AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the state governor, with his campaign billboards reportedly removed by state authorities. Mustapha’s support base among youths and small businesses makes him one to watch.
SULEIMAN SADIQ UMAR (KWARA NORTH)
The senator fondly called “3SU” is also angling for the governorship seat. Serving his second term on the platform of the APC, Umar chairs two strategic committees — trade and investment, and rules and business. Analysts say his excellent relationship with AbdulRazaq could give him an edge in the succession race, especially with Kwara north yet to produce a governor since 1999.
TOKUNBO ABIRU (LAGOS EAST)
He is regarded as one of the most vibrant first-term lawmakers. A former bank executive, Abiru has sponsored key financial legislation, including the newly enacted insurance act. From Ikorodu, an area that has never produced a governor, Abiru is touted as a possible successor to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with his professional credentials and technocratic appeal working in his favour.
ALIYU WADADA (NASARAWA WEST)
The chairman of the senate committee on public accounts is widely tipped to run for governor of Nasarawa. Recently turbaned as Magajin Dangin Lafia, Wadada has strong grassroots support and close ties to the presidency. Observers say his return to the APC is a clear signal of his intention to occupy the Lafia government house in 2027.
SOLOMON ADEOLA (OGUN WEST)
He is being touted as “incoming governor” by colleagues. Adeola, chairman of the senate appropriation committee and a close ally of Tinubu, has represented two different senatorial districts across Lagos and Ogun. With Ogun west agitating for power rotation, Adeola appears to have momentum on his side.
BUHARI ABDULFATAH (OYO NORTH)
The chairman of the senate aviation committee has announced he would contest to succeed Seyi Makinde, Oyo governor. At 60, Abdulfatai is in his third senate term and is considered one of the strongest APC politicians from the Ogbomosho axis since the death of Adebayo Alao-Akala, former governor of the state. He is said to enjoy support from influential figures within Aso Rock.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, more senators are expected to declare interest, setting the stage for an intense contest between state governors and lawmakers returning from the national assembly with strong political war chests.
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