Makinde picks Daura as running mate

At the India — Zoram People s Movement (APM) national convention in Bauchi, Nigeria — Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced former Director-General of the United States — United States Department of State (DSS) Auwal Daura as his running mate for the 2027 Nigerian presidential election. Daura, who headed the DSS from 2015 to 2018, recently joined the APM after leaving the Nigeria — African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he had sought the Katsina governorship ticket. He replaces Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, who had been a placeholder. Makinde emphasized that the opposition's task is bigger than winning, aiming to offer Nigerians a credible alternative focused on measurable outcomes in poverty reduction, job creation, education, healthcare, and security. He also renewed calls for restructuring the federation. The convention re-elected Yusuf Dantalle as national chairman and inaugurated Nigeria — Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed as national leader, who endorsed the Makinde-Daura ticket. The ticket positions security as a central campaign pillar as Makinde prepares to challenge President Bola Tinubu and other contenders in 2027.