By Samuel Solomon
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has called on Nigerians to support the NDC’s Obi-Kwankwaso ticket as campaigns for the 2027 presidential election officially commence.
Kwankwaso made the call in a statement posted on X on Thursday, urging Nigerians to reflect on the state of the country and the future they want for the next generation.
He said Nigeria was at “a critical crossroads”, citing rising food and essential commodity prices, unemployment among young people, high business operating costs and economic uncertainty as major challenges confronting the country.
Kwankwaso also expressed concern over the security situation, saying terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violence had continued to threaten communities and destroy lives and livelihoods.
“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 called for urgent investment in education and healthcare, alongside improvements in infrastructure and stronger institutions.
He said public resources must be managed with “greater transparency and accountability”, while stressing that Nigeria had the people, resources and potential to build a prosperous and secure nation.
Kwankwaso said effective leadership required “competence, courage and commitment” to put the interests of Nigerians first.
Explaining his decision to partner with former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Kwankwaso said the alliance was motivated by the desire to put national interests ahead of regional, religious and personal considerations.
“This is why I have chosen to work with His Excellency, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket,” he said.
“Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria,” he added.
Kwankwaso said the partnership was founded on the belief that government should serve the people, hard work should be rewarded and young Nigerians should have opportunities to build successful futures within the country.
He appealed to young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals to join the political movement and focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than divisive politics.
“Let us move beyond politics of division and focus on the issues that affect our daily lives,” Kwankwaso said.
He also urged Nigerians to demand accountability, competence and results from public office holders, describing the 2027 election as an opportunity for citizens to choose a new direction for the country.
Kwankwaso called on Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and candidates of the NDC, while urging supporters to conduct the campaign peacefully and responsibly.
“Let us campaign peacefully, responsibly and with the national interest at heart,” he said.
The former governor concluded his message with an optimistic outlook, saying: “Together, we can build a stronger nation and Nigeria will be OK.”
