Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has explained his decision to work with Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 presidential election, saying their partnership is driven by a shared vision for a different approach to governance in Nigeria.
Kwankwaso, who is seeking the vice-presidential ticket alongside Obi on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said the country had reached a critical point requiring a new direction in leadership.
In a statement released on Thursday as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the former governor highlighted insecurity, rising food prices, unemployment and high business costs among the major challenges facing Nigerians.
Kwankwaso said his decision to work with Obi was not based on regional, religious or personal considerations.
According to him, the partnership is built around a shared commitment to improving governance and creating better opportunities for Nigerians.
“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.
The former Kano governor said the proposed political alliance is focused on accountable governance, economic opportunity and inclusiveness.
He said they envisioned a country where government genuinely serves the people, hard work is rewarded and young Nigerians have opportunities to build successful futures within the country.
Kwankwaso said Nigerians are facing significant economic difficulties, including the rising cost of food and other essential commodities.
He also identified unemployment and the high cost of operating businesses as major concerns affecting households, entrepreneurs and companies.
According to him, the challenges require a government capable of responding to the needs of citizens while creating an environment where businesses can grow and employment opportunities can expand.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on the state of the country and consider the type of nation they want to leave for future generations.
“As the 2027 presidential campaign officially begins, I call on every Nigerian to reflect deeply on the state of our nation and the kind of country we want to leave for the next generation,” he said.
The former governor also identified insecurity as one of Nigeria’s most urgent challenges.
He said terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violence continue to threaten communities, families and livelihoods.
Kwankwaso argued that farmers cannot effectively contribute to food production if they are unable to safely access their farms.
He also said children need secure schools and that Nigerians should be able to live and conduct their daily activities without fear.
“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 comments place security and economic recovery among the major issues Kwankwaso says should shape the 2027 presidential campaign.
Beyond security and the economy, Kwankwaso said Nigeria needs urgent investment in education and healthcare.
He also called for improvements in infrastructure and stronger public institutions.
According to him, government resources must be managed with greater transparency and accountability.
“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.
The former governor said the Obi-Kwankwaso partnership would seek to build a government based on competence, accountability and results.
Kwankwaso urged Nigerians, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals, to participate actively in the political process.
He said citizens should not remain passive as the country prepares for another presidential election.
The former governor also called for campaigns to focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than divisive political rhetoric.
He urged politicians and their supporters to demand accountability and competence from those seeking public office.
“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 described the 2027 election as an opportunity for Nigerians to determine the future direction of the country.
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He said the proposed alliance with Obi would focus on rebuilding Nigeria and creating an inclusive society where citizens have a fair opportunity to prosper.
The former governor called on supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly as political activities increase ahead of the election.
He also appealed to Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and other candidates of the NDC.
The alliance between the two politicians brings together two prominent figures who contested the 2023 presidential election separately, with Obi running under the Labour Party and Kwankwaso contesting under the New Nigeria Peoples Party.
Their decision to work together ahead of the 2027 election is therefore expected to reshape the political landscape as parties and candidates prepare for the presidential contest.