Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has said that Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State, will not secure a presidential ticket in the 2027 general election. He made this known on Sunday, January 25, 2026, while discussing Nigeria’s political direction ahead of the polls.
Keyamo explained that Kwankwaso’s current political position has left him with limited options. He said the former governor’s long-standing desire to become president is facing setbacks because none of the major political parties are likely to present him as their candidate in 2027.
According to the minister, both the APC and PDP are expected to present candidates from the southern part of the country, while the African Democratic Congress is already leaning toward Atiku Abubakar. He added that the New Nigeria Peoples Party remains weak nationally and may struggle to retain control of Kano State due to recent defections, including that of the sitting governor.
Keyamo also noted that Kwankwaso is unlikely to support a northern presidential candidate in 2027 because doing so would delay his own ambition for many years. He said this makes any partnership with Atiku Abubakar unrealistic and narrows Kwankwaso’s political choices.
Looking ahead, Keyamo stated that 2031 appears to be a more realistic period for Kwankwaso to pursue the presidency. He warned, however, that decisions taken in 2027 will affect his influence and bargaining power in the future, especially if his control of Kano politics weakens.
The minister reviewed possible alliances with the PDP, APC, and Labour Party, noting that each option comes with limits. He said a return to the PDP or a move to the APC would likely require Kwankwaso to pause his presidential ambition until 2031, while the Labour Party option is even more restricted.
Keyamo concluded that Kwankwaso is at a critical point in his political career, where his next move could either end his national ambitions or keep them alive for the future.
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