Kwankwaso Submits NDC Candidates’ Names for 19 Northern States, FCT

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has completed the coordination and submission of the party’s candidates across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kwankwaso led the exercise, which involved working with the party’s National Working Committee and candidates contesting various elective positions in the region.

The process was concluded on Thursday, August 20, 2026, with the formal presentation of the names of the candidates to the NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson.

Kwankwaso disclosed the development in a statement issued after the exercise, describing it as another important stage in the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections.

He said the exercise was carried out in a spirit of cooperation between the party leadership and candidates across the northern states and the FCT.

“I appreciate the national leader, the National Working Committee and all the candidates for their cooperation, commitment and support throughout this exercise,” Kwankwaso said.

The former Kano State governor said the exercise was not simply an administrative requirement but part of efforts to build a strong political structure capable of competing across different levels of the 2027 elections.

“This is more than just the completion of a submission process. It is another step towards building a formidable NDC team capable of competing strongly at every level,” he said.

The former governor also commended party officials and the candidates for their commitment during the exercise.

According to him, the successful completion of the process showed that members were prepared to work together despite the challenges that usually accompany the selection and nomination of candidates in a political party.

“This collective effort demonstrates our determination to build a strong and united team that will represent the interests of our people effectively,” he said.

The exercise covers the northern political region, which accounts for 19 states, as well as the FCT.

The states include Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara.

Politics Nigeria recall that Obi and Kwankwaso joined the NDC in May after leaving the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

The NDC later ratified Obi as its presidential candidate and Kwankwaso as his running mate at a special convention held in Abuja.

The NDC leadership had also appealed to its members and candidates to remain committed to the party as it dealt with internal issues and preparations for the election.

Kwankwaso, meanwhile, has continued to speak about the need for a different approach to governance as the 2027 election draws closer.

In a separate message marking the commencement of political activities ahead of the election, he called on Nigerians to reject divisive politics and demand competent and accountable leadership.

He pointed to the pressure facing households and businesses, including rising food prices, unemployment, insecurity and high operating costs.

“The rising cost of food and essential goods has placed enormous pressure on families. Millions of young Nigerians are searching for meaningful employment and opportunities, while businesses are struggling with high operating costs,” Kwankwaso said.

He also raised concerns about insecurity across the country, particularly the impact of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping on communities.

“Our farmers need security to return to their farms, our children need safe schools, and every Nigerian deserves to live without fear,” the former governor said.

Kwankwaso further called for stronger investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure, while demanding greater transparency in the management of public resources.

“What we need is leadership with the competence, courage and commitment to put the interests of Nigerians first,” he said.

He also defended his partnership with Obi, saying the alliance was formed around a national agenda rather than ethnic, religious or personal interests.

“Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria.

“We believe in a country where government serves the people, where hard work is rewarded and where young people can build successful futures at home,” he said.

Kwankwaso urged Nigerians, particularly youths, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals, to take an active interest in the 2027 election.

He said the election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to decide the direction they want the country to take.

“Let us campaign peacefully, responsibly and with the national interest at heart. Together, we can build a stronger nation, and Nigeria will be OK,” he said.

Kwankwaso said the party remained focused on the task ahead and would continue working with its candidates and leaders to achieve its objectives.

“We remain focused on the task ahead and committed to working with all our candidates and party leaders to achieve our objectives,” Kwankwaso said.