*VP In My Administration Will Play Major Role In Governance, Not Be Ceremonial Job, Obi Says
The 2027 battle for the nation’s number one seat is shaping up robustly as different political parties elect their flagbearers for the position.
Yesterday, opposition Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) endorsed the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as its presidential flagbearer for the 2027 general election.
The endorsement was ratified at a special national convention in Abuja following a motion moved by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, who is running for a Senate seat for Delta Central under NDC.
Obi Picks Kwankwaso For VP
Shortly after accepting the nomination, Obi announced former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, as his running mate.
He hailed Kwankwaso in glowing terms, describing the former Defence Minister as a trusted partner who would play a central role in governance rather than serve as a ceremonial deputy.
In his acceptance speech, Obi thanked the party leadership, delegates and supporters across the country for the confidence reposed in him.
He said his aspiration was driven by a desire to restore hope, rebuild public trust and secure a better future for Nigerians.
Economy, Jobs, Security, Other Areas
Obi identified security, national unity, power supply, healthcare, education, youth empowerment and job creation as key priorities of his administration, if elected.
He said tackling unemployment would require deliberate support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through tax incentives, affordable financing and favourable lending rates.
According to him, sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, entertainment, sports and commerce would receive targeted support to stimulate growth and create jobs.
“Our young people remain significantly underemployed. We will create an enabling environment that stimulates enterprise growth, expands opportunities and generates sustainable jobs for millions of Nigerians,” he said.
Promises Transparency, Democratic Reforms
On governance, Obi pledged to reduce the cost of governance and ensure prudent management of public resources.
He promised greater transparency, accountability and fiscal discipline in the management of government resources.
The former governor of Anambra State also pledged to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and encourage constructive engagement with opposition parties.
The convention ended with party leaders expressing confidence that the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket would offer Nigerians a credible alternative in the 2027 presidential election.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Obi (in cap, smiling) and Kwankwaso (to Obi’s immediate left).
