Kwankwaso Will Be My Governing Partner, Not Spare Tyre — Peter Obi

Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to run an inclusive administration in which his running mate, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would play a central role in governance rather than serve as a ceremonial deputy.

Obi made the declaration shortly after accepting his nomination as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election and formally unveiling Kwankwaso as his vice-presidential running mate.

Addressing party delegates and supporters, Obi said his administration would depart from what he described as a long-standing tradition of marginalising vice presidents.

“The government we intend to form will no longer be a government where anybody will say that the vice president is a spare tyre,” Obi said.

“The vice president will be a partner because we want to build a nation where there are two equal people who work for the greatness of the country.”

He stressed that governance under his administration would be based on consultation, collaboration and shared responsibility.

According to him, key decisions would be taken collectively, with all stakeholders given the opportunity to contribute.

Obi described Kwankwaso as a leader whose priorities align closely with his own, particularly in the areas of education, security and human capital development.

“It is on this note that I graciously accept the affirmation as the candidate of this great party. In the same spirit, I am inviting Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to join me as vice-presidential candidate,” he said.

Reiterating his campaign slogan, Obi maintained that “a New Nigeria is Possible,” arguing that the project represented a national movement rather than a personal political ambition.

He identified insecurity as one of the most urgent threats facing the country and pledged decisive action to restore safety and public confidence.

“The primary responsibility of government is to ensure the protection of lives and property,” he said.

Obi also highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in international peacekeeping operations and expressed confidence that the country could reclaim its position as a respected leader on the continent through stronger institutions and effective governance.