Real Reason I Picked Kwankwaso as My Running Mate — Peter Obi

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has explained why he selected former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate, saying the decision was based on their shared commitment to tackling poverty and improving education across Nigeria.

Speaking in an interview with The Sun, Obi said Kwankwaso’s record and philosophy of empowering people through education and economic opportunities made him the right choice for the ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to Obi, both leaders share similar ideas on how to revive Nigeria’s economy and improve the living standards of citizens.

He said Kwankwaso believes strongly in lifting people out of poverty through deliberate investment in education and human capital development, a vision he also supports.

“Kwankwaso has the philosophy of pulling people out of poverty,” Obi said.

“I have the same philosophy. Kwankwaso believes in education. You cannot change society without education.”

Obi stressed that education would remain one of the key priorities of their administration if elected into office, describing it as the foundation for national development.

He noted that Nigeria must invest significantly in developing its human capital to compete effectively in the modern global economy.

“If you look at my X, formerly Twitter, I made it clear that I will emphasise education. Education is going to change society,” he said.

“Nigeria must be seen to form its innermost human capital, which we need to develop. Kwankwaso believes in this. I do. We have synergy.”

The former Anambra State governor also dismissed speculation suggesting that disagreements had emerged between him and the former Kano governor following the announcement of their joint ticket.

According to Obi, reports of a rift between them are false, insisting that both leaders remain united and focused on preparations for the January 2027 presidential election.

He said they continue to work together on strategies aimed at presenting Nigerians with an alternative leadership focused on economic recovery, improved governance and national development.

Obi maintained that their partnership is built on shared values and a common vision for the country, expressing confidence that their collaboration would strengthen efforts to address Nigeria’s economic and social challenges.