The former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Saturday addressed members and officials of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at the party’s national convention.
The convention, held ahead of the 2027 general elections, was where the NDC zoned its presidential ticket to the South.
Kwankwaso recently joined the NDC after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Speaking at the convention, Kwankwaso lamented what he described as the poor quality of life in the country.
He also expressed concern over the state of leadership and governance, saying Nigerians deserved better.
The former governor said the NDC must position itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Fellow Nigerians,
“It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of fulfilment that I address you today on this historic occasion of the National Convention of our great party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in Abuja.
“Since we joined this party, together with numerous stakeholders, millions of supporters, and well-meaning Nigerians, the NDC has continued to attract quality members and ignite enthusiastic conversations among citizens and observers both at home and abroad. What began as a bold movement is steadily becoming a formidable platform for national renewal.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. The world is undergoing a profound geopolitical shift, yet our nation has been caught unprepared, largely because of poor leadership. Instead of positioning Nigeria to seize emerging opportunities, bad governance has left us bearing the brunt of global changes.
“We are witnessing a sharp decline in the quality of life. Insecurity has created widows and orphans across the land. Millions have been displaced from their homes. Investments are fleeing, critical infrastructure is neglected, the education system is collapsing, and harsh economic policies have been imposed on citizens without meaningful safety nets or relief.
“Yet Nigeria’s history teaches us that in our most challenging moments, visionary alliances have provided the way forward. In 1954, a historic partnership was formed between the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by Aminu Kano and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by Nnamdi Azikiwe to achieve national unity.
“Again, in 1960, against steep odds, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe’s National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) formed a coalition with the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) to birth our independence.
“In the Second Republic, the alliance between Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) helped restore civilian rule and national unity after years of military dictatorship.
“It is therefore with great sense of unity and solidarity, that as a loyal party member, I support the decision to zone the presidential ticket of the NDC to the South, so that it allows the region to complete its turn in producing national leadership.
“This represents a true opportunity for true national healing. We shall work in abidance with the party’s agreement to ensure fairness and federal character in all ramifications.
“This party shall also ensure to change the way things are done today by prioritising leadership without ethnic jingoism and religious favouritism.
“The leadership standard we shall set will therefore restore Nigeria’s dignity and will guarantee that our citizens at home and the diaspora will be treated with respect and dignity.
“Lastly, we can only achieve that by continuing to mobilise to register with INEC to vote, and the NDC to belong to this noble cause. Please register, today.
“Thank you.
“Long Live the Nigeria Democratic Congress!
“Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!”
