I’ll secure NDC VP position and open door for Kano to produce president – Kwankwaso

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has expressed confidence that he will secure the vice-presidential ticket of the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election, saying the move could eventually pave the way for Kano State to produce Nigeria’s president.

The former Kano governor made the remarks during an interview on Premier Radio. “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 lamented that Kano State had never produced a vice president since Nigeria’s First Republic despite what he described as the state’s political influence and contributions. “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 stated.

Kwankwaso added that securing the vice-presidential slot would position Kano for greater political relevance in the 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 said.

The former governor also claimed that many southerners who understood the current political situation were already joining the NDC. “People from the south who understand what is happening are already registering with our party,” he said.

He further urged political stakeholders in northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-West, to make careful decisions ahead of the next election cycle. “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 added.

Kwankwaso and Peter Obi defected from the African Democratic Congress to the Nigeria Democratic Congress earlier this month. According to reports, both politicians allegedly agreed to contest the 2027 presidential election on a joint ticket, with Obi expected to emerge as the presidential candidate while Kwankwaso would serve as running mate.

Nigeria has traditionally operated an informal power-sharing arrangement between the northern and southern regions, with many political observers arguing that the presidency should remain in the south until 2031 before returning to the north.

Kwankwaso suggested that if Obi wins the presidency in 2027 and he becomes vice president, the arrangement could position him as a potential successor in 2031.