Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has explained why he agreed to run alongside Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Kwankwaso, who is seeking the vice-presidential position on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, said his decision was influenced by the need for a different approach to governance and a shared vision for Nigeria.
He made this known in a statement on Thursday as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gather momentum.
Kwankwaso said Nigeria was facing serious challenges, including rising food prices, unemployment, high business costs and insecurity.
He also raised concerns about terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, saying the security situation had affected communities, farmers and families across the country.
“Our farmers need security to return to their farms, our children need safe schools, and every Nigerian deserves to live without fear,” he said.
The former governor also identified education, healthcare, infrastructure and institutional reform as areas requiring urgent attention.
“Our education and healthcare systems require urgent investment. Our infrastructure must be improved, our institutions strengthened, and public resources managed with greater transparency and accountability,” he said.
Explaining his decision to join Obi, Kwankwaso said the partnership was not based on regional or religious considerations.
“This is why I have chosen to work with His Excellency, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket. Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria,” he said.
He said the proposed administration would focus on accountable governance, economic opportunities and inclusion.
Kwankwaso said the partnership was aimed at building a country where government would serve the people and young Nigerians would have opportunities to build their futures at home.
“We believe in a country where government serves the people, where hard work is rewarded, where young people can build successful futures at home, and where every citizen has a fair opportunity to prosper,” he said.
The former Kano governor also urged Nigerians, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals, to take an active part in the political process.
He called for issue-based campaigns and urged politicians and their supporters to avoid divisive rhetoric during the election season.
“Let us move beyond politics of division and focus on the issues that affect our daily lives. Let us demand accountability, competence and results from those entrusted with public office,” he said.
Kwankwaso further urged supporters of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly, describing the 2027 election as an opportunity for Nigerians to decide the country’s future direction.
“I therefore call on all Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and all candidates of the NDC and join us in the task of rebuilding our nation,” he said.