The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has listed Muhammad Nami as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Niger State ahead of the 2027 general election.

Nami, a former Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), emerged as the PDP’s preferred candidate after other aspirants withdrew from the contest and agreed to support his candidacy.

The party’s decision followed consultations among its leadership and aspirants, with officials expressing confidence in Nami’s experience and capacity to lead the state.

Nami served as FIRS chairman from 2019 to 2023 and is expected to campaign on issues including public finance management, security, agriculture and employment opportunities for young people.

The PDP has governed Niger State for 16 years since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, but lost the governorship to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015.

The party is seeking to regain control of the state in the 2027 election, with Nami expected to lead its campaign against incumbent Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and other candidates.

INEC’s publication of candidates’ particulars forms part of the statutory process for the 2027 elections, allowing members of the public to examine information submitted by political parties.

The governorship contest is expected to feature candidates from several political parties as preparations for the election continue.