Ex-Kano governor says vice presidency bid will reposition North-West in national power structure, predicts political shift ahead of 2027

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a prominent figure in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed strong confidence that he will secure the party’s vice-presidential ticket, describing it as a historic opportunity that could eventually lead to Kano State producing Nigeria’s president.

Speaking over the weekend during an interview on Premier Radio, the former Kano State governor said the 2027 election cycle presents a “rare political moment” for the state and the North-West region.

“By God’s grace, the next election will be unlike anything that has ever happened in our state and country, especially if I secure the ticket and my name is on the ballot,” Kwankwaso said.

He argued that Kano has long been excluded from Nigeria’s highest political offices, particularly the vice presidency, despite its population size and political influence.

“Since the First Republic, despite our struggles and political wisdom, Kano has never produced a vice president. This is both disappointing and deeply saddening, but by God’s grace, it will be corrected,” he said.

Kwankwaso added that securing the vice-presidential position would mark a turning point for the state’s political future.

“Kano state will rightfully secure this position, which will open the door for our state to eventually produce the president of this country,” he stated.

The former governor also suggested that his political movement is gaining traction beyond the North, claiming growing interest from southern supporters.

“People from the south who understand what is happening are already registering with our party,” he said.

He further urged voters in the North-West to be strategic ahead of the next general election.

“The north, especially the north-west, must be careful and ensure they do what is right so they do not make a decision they will deeply regret,” Kwankwaso warned.

Kwankwaso, alongside Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, recently defected from the African Democratic Congress (NDC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) earlier this month.