Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential flagbearer of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, has hinted at a possible collaboration between the Nigeria Democratic Congress and the African Democratic Congress ahead of Nigeria’s next elections.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s “Prime Time” programme on Monday, Kwankwaso discussed the ongoing political developments surrounding his movement away from the ADC and his partnership with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The former Kano State governor explained that discussions and political alignments were still unfolding, noting that both parties could eventually unite before the polls. He observed that while many older politicians continue to emphasise ethnic and religious divisions, a large number of younger Nigerians are more interested in capable and effective leadership.
Kwankwaso maintained that the younger generation is prioritising national development and good governance over identity politics, adding that this shift in mindset could shape the country’s political future.
He also revisited the 2015 general election and his contribution to the victory of former President Muhammadu Buhari. According to him, his political base delivered almost two million votes during the election, yet neither he nor his supporters benefited from the administration that followed.
Kwankwaso stated that despite the sacrifices made by him and members of his political movement, they were not acknowledged or rewarded after Buhari assumed office. He added that both individuals and communities that supported the campaign felt neglected by the government that emerged afterward.
Although he expressed disappointment over the outcome, the former governor did not clearly state the form of compensation or recognition he expected from the Buhari-led administration.
Assessing Nigeria’s democratic leadership since 1999, Kwankwaso praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his efforts in office. He also noted that the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua struggled with health-related challenges during his tenure.
He further described the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan as politically difficult, citing controversies surrounding claims that Jonathan had agreed to spend only one term in office.
Commenting on the present administration, Kwankwaso said many Nigerians were unhappy with the current state of governance and were eager to see a different direction for the country. He stressed that growing dissatisfaction among citizens had increased calls for political change ahead of future elections.
The NNPP chieftain also revealed that the NDC had recorded rising support since he and Peter Obi became associated with the party earlier this month. He claimed supporters had started establishing offices across several parts of Nigeria and even outside the country.
Kwankwaso concluded by arguing that Nigeria’s progress depends more on visionary and committed leadership than on regional or ethnic affiliations. According to him, competence and dedication should remain the key factors in choosing the nation’s next leader.
