The presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Mr. Peter Obi, has pledged that Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso will serve as his vice president “as a partner, not a spare tyre,” if elected in the 2027 general elections.
Obi stated this in his acceptance speech following his nomination as the NDC presidential candidate, contained in a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday.
The former Anambra state governor formally announced Kwankwaso as his running mate on Saturday. Both Obi and Kwankwaso contested the last presidential election, finishing third and fourth respectively. They trailed former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu, who was declared winner of the election.
Kwankwaso, a former Kano state governor, ran under the New Nigeria Peoples Party and secured victory only in Kano, where he retains strong political influence.
Speaking, Obi described his emergence as a call to national service, pledging to pursue what he called a “New Nigeria” anchored on unity, security, economic reform, and accountable governance. He expressed appreciation to party leaders, including the National Chairman, Seriake Dickson, the National Secretary, the National Working Committee (NWC), and party supporters across the country.
Obi said Nigeria was at a “crucial juncture, enveloped in uncertainty,” noting rising insecurity, economic hardship, and declining public trust in governance. On national unity, he warned against ethnic, religious, and regional divisions, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity must be a strength rather than a source of conflict. In addressing insecurity, he said the situation had worsened.
“In terms of security, the situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened. The global terrorism impact assessments ranked Nigeria as the 8th most affected nation in 2022, 6th in 2024, and 4th in 2026.
“Yet, for many years, Nigeria garnered global recognition as a reliable contributor to peacekeeping, regional stabilisation, and conflict resolution. Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts.
“Our officers and personnel have successfully commanded multiple international forthe ces, safeguarded vulnerable civilian populations, monitored ceasefires, reinstated constitutional order, and contributed to rebuilding efforts.
Punch.
