KEY POINTS

• Atiku Abubakar visited Rabiu Kwankwaso in Kano, calling for unity within the ADC to restore governance, development and security in Nigeria.
• Kwankwaso welcomed the visit, confirmed his commitment to the party, and pledged to work with leaders nationwide to strengthen its electoral chances.
• The meeting followed Kwankwaso’s formal defection from the NNPP to the ADC, where he joined other prominent political figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to Rabiu Kwankwaso at his residence in Kano, where both leaders discussed the future of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the need for unity within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Abubakar said the meeting focused on strengthening the party and advancing efforts to deliver good governance for Nigerians. He described Kwankwaso as a brother and partner, adding that their discussion centred on the progress of the ADC and strategies to accelerate national recovery.

A video accompanying the statement showed both politicians reaffirming their commitment to the party and emphasising unity among members as a critical factor for electoral success.

While addressing Kwankwaso during the visit, Atiku said he came on behalf of the ADC leadership and members to welcome him into the party. He assured Kwankwaso of the party’s commitment to working together, stressing that it was time for stakeholders to unite in order to restore governance, development and security across the country.

Kwankwaso pledges cooperation with party leadership

Responding, Kwankwaso thanked the former vice-president for the visit and confirmed his alignment with the ADC. He said he and his supporters were ready to work collaboratively with party leaders and members at all levels.

He stated that the party had already demonstrated unity at the national level and expressed optimism that continued cooperation would strengthen its chances in future elections. Kwankwaso added that the ADC could secure victories not only in north-western Nigeria but across the entire country if members maintained their collective resolve.

Kwankwaso officially joined the ADC on Monday at Kwankwasiyya House in Kano, where he registered as a member and received his party membership card in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

The event attracted several prominent political figures, including David Mark, national chairman of the ADC; Aminu Tambuwal; Rotimi Amaechi; Peter Obi; Dino Melaye; and John Odigie-Oyegun.

Kwankwaso’s defection to the ADC followed his resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), the platform under which he contested the 2023 presidential election. Announcing his departure, he expressed appreciation to the party for the opportunity to serve as its national leader and presidential candidate