Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria — The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has publicly asserted that former Kano State Governor and NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will not secure a presidential ticket for the 2027 general election, signalling a sharp critique of the politician’s strategic positioning amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. The minister’s comments, made on Sunday, 25 January 2026, reflect ongoing tensions and realignments as parties and leaders position themselves ahead of next year’s polls.
Speaking in media remarks and via his official social media channels on Sunday, Mr. Keyamo said Kwankwaso has “boxed himself into one of the tightest corners in his political career” because of his refusal or indecision to accept an earlier political overture from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to the minister, this political calculus has left the former governor without a viable platform on which to contest the presidency in 2027.
Keyamo described Kwankwaso’s predicament as rooted in the changing dynamics of Nigeria’s party politics. He argued that none of the major political parties are likely to select him as their presidential candidate, given that both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are focused on southern ticket strategies and other alliances, while the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) — Kwankwaso’s own party — is viewed as lacking sufficient national spread and influence.
“Kwankwaso wants to be President, but none of the major political parties will pick him as a candidate in 2027,” Keyamo said, adding that the NNPP remains largely a one‑state party with diminishing clout, especially after recent defections from its ranks. The minister urged that political leadership and campaign viability now hinge on broad national appeal, party strength, and strategic alliances — elements he argued Kwankwaso currently lacks.
Keyamo also dismissed speculation about potential northern alliances or ticket arrangements involving the former governor. He said Kwankwaso’s calculations are complicated by the expectation that backing another northern candidate could undercut his own presidential ambitions, a factor he suggested has further narrowed his options.
While Keyamo’s remarks form part of a spirited public debate ahead of the 2027 elections, not all political actors agree on the assessment of Kwankwaso’s prospects. Separate party statements and earlier commentary from political figures have suggested varying outlooks on alliances and candidate viability, including discussions around coalition talks involving major opposition leaders.
The aviation minister’s pronouncement underscores the high‑stakes jockeying among Nigeria’s political elite as the 2027 presidential race draws nearer. It highlights the importance of party structures, strategic positioning and alliance building in what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections in recent memory.
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