He explained that his movement is deliberately keeping multiple options open to avoid accusations of secret deals or collusion, noting that different political paths are being considered.
Former Kano State Governor and national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared his readiness to work with other political forces ahead of future elections, saying he is open to contesting either as President or Vice President, depending on agreements reached with trusted allies.
Kwankwaso made the declaration while addressing party members and supporters in Hausa in Kano State, emphasizing that his priority is to align with trusted allies who share his political values, rather than pursue personal ambition.
“What we want first of all are those who will agree with me and whom I love, for me to lead, whether as number one or number two,” Kwankwaso said.
He explained that his movement is deliberately keeping multiple options open to avoid accusations of secret deals or collusion, noting that different political paths are being considered.
“In order not to accuse people wrongly or say there is collusion, we will have option one, option two, option A, option B, and so on,” he said.
The former governor added that his consultations have focused largely on grassroots mobilisation, particularly in Kano State, where he said political issues from past elections are being resolved from the bottom up.
“Whether we are moving around the grassroots, whether we are moving around Kano State, or whether we have to stop and prepare acceptance in one place where we will surely achieve success, we will do so, God willing,” he stated.
Kwankwaso also appeared to criticise political negotiations that fail to deliver tangible value, especially for young people, saying promises without substance would not be accepted.
“When people say they will give us youths or supporters, we ask: how many, and in what form? What exactly have they brought?” he queried, suggesting that his camp is now more deliberate and cautious in political engagements.
He revealed that high-ranking political figures, including national party leaders, have been holding talks with his movement, describing them as “people of status and dignity” who did not come casually.
According to him, the strength of his political base lies at the grassroots, and discussions are ongoing about forming alliances, either within the NNPP or with other political parties.
“We have found a base at the grassroots, and we are hopeful of getting a political party that we will join with others, whether it is the NNPP or whichever party it may be,” Kwankwaso said.
Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, the former governor acknowledged that controversies and disagreements arose, but insisted they are now being addressed at the community level, especially in Kano State.
“Many people made various statements in 2023, but all these issues we are resolving at the grassroots. In Kano State, God willing, there will be no problem at all,” he assured.
Kwankwaso stated that his political journey as one driven by resilience, dignity and determination, signalling that his next move would be guided by strength rather than desperation.
“This journey is one of firm determination. This struggle is based on strength, on firm determination, and on dignity,” he said.
Ahead of Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, the NNPP led by Kwankwaso and the Labour Party (LP) led by Peter Obi explored forming an alliance. However, talks collapsed because both sides wanted their candidate to be the presidential flagbearer, leaving the question of who would serve as running mate unresolved. This disagreement ultimately thwarted the move.
I will accept VP ticket to Obi.
PhD Kwankwaso begs.
pic.twitter.com/ON417dkT7N— ADC News (@AdcNews_) January 3, 2026