Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has urged Nigerians to critically reflect on the state of the nation and the kind of country they want to leave for future generations as the 2027 presidential campaign officially begins.
Kwankwaso, in a message to Nigerians on the commencement of the campaign, said the country was at a critical crossroads, with citizens grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and inadequate public services.
He said the rising cost of food and essential commodities had placed enormous pressure on families, while millions of young Nigerians continued to search for meaningful employment and opportunities.
Kwankwaso also expressed concern over the challenges facing businesses, particularly high operating costs and economic uncertainty, while noting that terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violence continued to threaten communities across the country.
According to him, the situation requires Nigerians to carefully consider the quality of leadership they want as the country heads towards the 2027 elections.
“Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. Our people are facing a difficult economic reality,” Kwankwaso said.
He stressed that farmers needed security to return to their farms, children required safe schools and citizens deserved to live without fear.
Kwankwaso also called for urgent investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure, as well as stronger institutions and greater transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
Despite the challenges, he said Nigeria remained a country of enormous potential, with the human and material resources needed to build a prosperous and secure nation.
“These challenges are serious, but Nigeria is full of hope. We have the people, resources and potential to build a prosperous and secure nation,” he said.
Kwankwaso said his decision to work with former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket was based on the desire to put the interests of the country ahead of regional, religious and personal considerations.
He described the partnership as a platform for promoting accountable governance, economic opportunities and a system where citizens could prosper through hard work.
“Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria,” he said.
The former governor urged youths, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals to participate actively in the political process and demand accountability, competence and measurable results from those seeking public office.
He also appealed to Nigerians to reject divisive politics and focus on issues affecting their daily lives as campaigns for the 2027 elections get underway.
Kwankwaso urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and responsibly, with the national interest placed above partisan considerations.
“The 2027 election presents Nigerians with an opportunity to choose a new direction,” he said.
He subsequently called on Nigerians to support the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket and candidates of the NDC, expressing optimism that the country could be rebuilt through collective effort.
“Together, we can build a stronger nation and Nigeria will be OK,” he said.
