Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has pledged to run an inclusive administration in which his running mate, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would serve as a full partner in governance rather than a ceremonial deputy.
Obi made the pledge on Saturday while accepting his nomination as the National Democratic Coalition’s presidential candidate, shortly after unveiling Kwankwaso as his vice-presidential nominee.
The former Anambra State governor said his administration would break from what he described as the longstanding practice of sidelining deputy leaders.
“The government we intend to form will no longer be a government where anybody will say that the vice president is a spare tyre,” Obi said.
“The vice president will be a partner because we want to build a nation where there are two equal people working for the greatness of the country.
“Decisions will be taken as partners. Everybody will be consulted. That is what we require, and that is how government functions.”
Obi said the proposed arrangement reflected his commitment to consultation, collective responsibility and inclusive leadership.
He subsequently invited Kwankwaso to join him on the ticket, describing the former Kano governor as a leader who shares his vision, particularly in the areas of education and security.
“It is on this note that I graciously accept the affirmation as the candidate of this great party. And in the same spirit, I am inviting Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to join me as the vice-presidential candidate,” he said.
“He believes in education and security, and we will work together to ensure progress in those critical sectors.”
According to Obi, the partnership would be driven by a shared commitment to national development and a determination to tackle Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
Reiterating his campaign mantra that “a New Nigeria is Possible,” he said the political project was bigger than any individual ambition.
“This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi. It concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children. It is about rekindling hope for millions who have faced adversity yet remain committed to Nigeria,” he said.
Obi also identified insecurity as one of the gravest threats to Nigeria’s progress, promising decisive action to restore safety and public confidence.
“We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation.
“The primary responsibility of government is to safeguard lives and property,” he said.
The former governor recalled Nigeria’s historic role in international peacekeeping operations, noting that the country’s armed forces once earned global recognition for their effectiveness and leadership in missions across Africa and beyond.
He said restoring security, strengthening institutions and fostering national unity would be among the central objectives of an administration led by him and Kwankwaso.
