As Nigeria’s political landscape gears up for the 2027 elections, significant realignments are already taking shape. One of the most intriguing possibilities is the potential return of former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) after his brief stint with the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The speculation surrounding his political future is generating intense debate, given his deep-rooted influence in Kano politics.
A Brief History of APC’s Emergence
The APC was formed through the merger of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). The alliance, largely driven by Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic political maneuvering, was primarily focused on securing power rather than ideological cohesion. At the heart of this merger was Muhammadu Buhari, whose widespread popularity in the North made him the perfect candidate to challenge the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Buhari’s ability to secure over 12 million votes under the CPC in the 2011 presidential elections, despite limited resources and a weak national political structure, underscored his mass appeal. Tinubu, leveraging his deep political network and vast resources, orchestrated the APC merger, positioning Buhari as the consensus presidential candidate in 2015. The move proved successful, leading to PDP’s defeat and Buhari’s election as Nigeria’s president.
Subsequent elections saw Buhari secure re-election in 2019, while Tinubu, after a fierce primary battle in 2023, emerged as APC’s presidential candidate and ultimately won the general election.
The 2027 Political Landscape: Kwankwaso’s Next Move
As the 2027 election cycle approaches, political observers are closely watching Kwankwaso, a two-time Governor of Kano State, former Minister of Defence, and a strong presidential contender. His recent departure from the APC to establish the NNPP yielded significant success in the 2023 elections, where the party won the Kano governorship, secured a majority in the State Assembly, and claimed two senatorial seats along with several House of Representatives positions.
However, with growing speculation about his potential return to APC, the political equation in Kano could shift dramatically. Should he choose to rejoin APC, it may pave the way for reconciliation with the party’s national chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, his long-time political rival. In Nigerian politics, alliances are often dictated by interest rather than permanent friendships or enmities. A realignment between Kwankwaso and APC could significantly shape Kano’s political and economic trajectory.
Economic Revitalization: The Path Forward for Kano
Regardless of political affiliations, the primary concern should be the development of Kano and the well-being of its people. Historically, Kano has been the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria, known for its thriving industries and dynamic economy. However, years of neglect have led to industrial decline and economic stagnation.
To reclaim its status as the North’s economic powerhouse, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf must take decisive steps, including:
• Constituting an Economic Advisory Council: This council should be chaired by His Highness, the Emir of Kano, and include prominent Kano indigenes with proven expertise in economic development, such as Mansur Ahmed of Dangote Group and other accomplished professionals. Their collective experience could provide strategic guidance for revitalizing the state’s economy.
• Reviving Moribund Industries: Many industries in Kano have either shut down or are struggling due to poor infrastructure and lack of support. The government should focus on resuscitating these industries while creating an enabling environment for new businesses to thrive.
• Leveraging Hydropower for Industrial Growth: The Challawa Gorge and Tiga hydropower plants hold immense potential for boosting industrialization in Kano. Harnessing these resources efficiently can provide the much-needed electricity to revive industries, attract investment, and create employment opportunities for the teeming youth population.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has shown a strong commitment to transforming Kano’s economy. By prioritizing industrial development, job creation, and wealth generation, he can set the state on a path of sustained prosperity. With strategic planning and collaboration among Kano’s political and economic stakeholders, the future of the state looks promising, In Sha Allah.
Mahmud Shuaibu Ringim
HALIM Consulting Ltd, Kano
mahmudshuaibu44@gmail.com
