Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, has called on Nigerians to reject divisive politics and demand competent, accountable and people-oriented leadership.
Kwankwaso made the call as political parties commenced campaigns for the 2027 presidential election. He urged Nigerians to use the election as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s challenges and decide the kind of future they want for the next generation.
The former Kano State governor identified rising food prices, unemployment, high business operating costs and insecurity as some of the major challenges currently affecting Nigerians.
He said the increasing cost of essential goods was placing significant pressure on families, while many young Nigerians continue to search for employment and better economic opportunities.
Kwankwaso also expressed concern about the difficulties facing businesses, noting that high operating costs continue to create challenges for entrepreneurs and investors.
On security, the NDC vice-presidential candidate said terrorism, banditry and kidnapping remain serious threats to communities across the country. He stressed the need to provide a safe environment for farmers, students, workers and other Nigerians.
According to him, farmers need adequate security to return to their farms, while children should be able to attend schools without fear.
Kwankwaso also called for increased investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure, alongside stronger institutions and greater transparency in the management of public resources.
He argued that Nigeria has sufficient human and natural resources to become a prosperous and secure country, urging citizens not to lose hope despite the difficulties facing the nation.
The former Kano governor said his decision to partner with Peter Obi was based on what he described as a commitment to national development rather than regional, religious or personal considerations.
He maintained that the partnership was designed to promote a country where government serves the interests of citizens, hard work is rewarded and young Nigerians have opportunities to build successful futures within the country.
Kwankwaso subsequently urged Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and other NDC candidates in the 2027 elections.
He particularly appealed to youths, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals to participate actively in the political process and demand accountability from political leaders.
He said voters should assess political candidates based on competence, performance and their ability to deliver measurable results rather than allowing political divisions to determine their choices.
The NDC vice-presidential candidate also appealed to politicians and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly.
He urged political actors to place the national interest above personal and sectional considerations throughout the campaign period.
The comments come as political activities intensify across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major parties and political alliances beginning to mobilise supporters and present their candidates to voters.
Kwankwaso’s endorsement of the Obi ticket adds further weight to the opposition alliance’s campaign as it seeks to attract support from different parts of the country.
The political partnership is expected to remain a major talking point throughout the campaign as voters assess the different presidential candidates and their proposed solutions to Nigeria’s economic, security and social challenges.
Kwankwaso maintained that the 2027 election provides Nigerians with an opportunity to choose a new direction for the country and called on citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.
