The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has revised the party’s timetable for the 2027 elections, shifting its presidential primary to 23 May.

The adjustment was confirmed to journalists in Abuja on Thursday by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Duro Meseko, following the party’s 186th NWC meeting.

Mr. Meseko said the presidential primary, earlier scheduled for 15 May, has now been rescheduled to Saturday, 23 May, alongside other revised election dates.

He confirmed that Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for all elective positions remain open to aspiring party members nationwide.

According to him, the changes were necessary to ensure full compliance with the amended Constitution, the 2026 Electoral Act, and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“This is the newest timetable reflecting updated legal and procedural requirements,” Mr. Meseko said.

He added that the revised schedule had been formally communicated to INEC in accordance with established electoral regulations.

Under the timetable, the sale of nomination forms will commence on Saturday, 25 April, and close on Saturday, 2 May. The deadline for submission of completed forms has been fixed for Monday, 4 May.

Screening of all aspirants, from House of Assembly to the presidential level, will take place between 6 May and 9 May. Presidential screening is scheduled for Saturday, 9 May, while results for all categories will be published on Monday, 11 May.

Mr. Meseko explained that the primaries would follow a staggered sequence, covering legislative, senatorial, governorship, and presidential elections on different dates.

He dismissed reports suggesting restrictions on the sale of nomination forms, insisting that the process remains open to all qualified APC aspirants.

“I am here to inform all party faithful that nomination forms are open to all aspirants seeking elective offices,” he said.

On the mode of primaries, Mr. Meseko said the NWC had adopted both direct and consensus options, as permitted under the Electoral Act, depending on prevailing circumstances.

He stressed that any consensus arrangement must reflect agreement among aspirants and key stakeholders before adoption by party structures.

“Where consensus fails, or is rejected by any aspirant, the party automatically reverts to direct primary elections,” he explained.

He added that state chapters have been empowered to determine the appropriate mode of primary elections within their jurisdictions.

In Zamfara State, he disclosed that internal party congresses have been scheduled, beginning with ward, local government, and state-level exercises from 28 April.

“Ward congresses will hold on 30 April, while state congresses and appeal processes are expected to conclude by 3 May,” he said.

Mr. Meseko further assured party members that the updated national membership register, including new entrants, has been duly transmitted to INEC.

According to him, the APC is fully prepared for its 2027 primary elections following the completion of all administrative and regulatory processes.