Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has thrown his weight behind the decision of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria.
Speaking on Saturday during the party’s national convention in Abuja, Kwankwaso described the move as necessary for national unity, fairness and political stability.
According to him, allowing the South to complete its turn in power would help strengthen trust and promote national healing.
Addressing party delegates and supporters at the convention, Kwankwaso portrayed the NDC as a growing political force capable of reshaping the country’s future.
He said the party had already begun attracting attention within and outside Nigeria as an alternative platform for Nigerians seeking change.
The former governor also expressed concern over the country’s current condition.
He said Nigeria was facing one of its most difficult periods due to poor leadership and weak governance.
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He pointed to rising economic hardship, declining living standards, dwindling investor confidence and challenges in the education sector as signs that the country urgently needed competent and visionary leadership.
Kwankwaso argued that Nigeria had failed to position itself properly in the face of changing global realities.
“Nigeria has been caught unprepared for major geopolitical changes because of poor leadership,” he said.
“Rather than taking advantage of emerging opportunities, the country has continued to suffer the consequences of bad governance.”
Why zoning?
To support his argument for power rotation and political inclusiveness, Kwankwaso referenced several historical alliances that shaped Nigeria’s political evolution.
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He cited the 1954 alliance between NEPU and NCNC, the 1960 NCNC-NPC coalition that ushered in independence, and the Shagari-Ekwueme partnership during the Second Republic as examples of cooperation built on national interest.
According to him, the NDC’s decision to support a Southern presidency reflects its commitment to equity, federal character and national balance.
He also promised that the party would distance itself from what he described as ethnic and religious politics.
He insisted that competence and inclusiveness would remain central to the party’s vision.
Kwankwaso further assured supporters that the NDC would pursue a style of leadership focused on restoring dignity and confidence among Nigerians, both at home and abroad.
He said the party intended to build a political culture rooted in accountability, fairness and respect for citizens.
“The leadership standard we shall set will guarantee that Nigerians are treated with dignity and respect wherever they are,” he added.
Mobilisation
Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to become more politically involved ahead of the next general elections.
He encouraged eligible citizens to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission and join the NDC as part of efforts to build a stronger political movement.
“We can only achieve our goals through continuous mobilisation,” he said.
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“I urge Nigerians to register and participate actively.”
The convention marked a step for the NDC as the party moved to strengthen its national structure and position itself ahead of the 2027 elections.
