NIGERIA: Obi Praises Kano, Says It ‘Remains A Vital Pillar In Nigeria’s Socio-economic And Political Landscape’

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Former Labour Party leader and presidential candidate Peter Obi has described Kano as an indispensable force in Nigeria’s development.

Obi in a statement on Monday stated that “Kano remains a vital pillar in Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape” following his visit to the ancient city to join Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya movement for their annual Sallah celebrations.

Following his Sunday trip to Kano (after stops in Kaduna and Katsina), Obi expressed profound gratitude for the warm reception and the strong sense of brotherhood displayed at the event.

He stressed the importance of transcending divisions at this pivotal moment in the nation’s journey, calling for unity across political, ethnic, and religious lines to restore hope and rebuild public trust in Nigeria.

Obi highlighted Kano’s rich historical legacy as a commercial and industrial powerhouse, noting its contributions to trade, human capital development, and national progress.

He portrayed the city as a living example of what Nigeria can achieve under visionary, competent, and compassionate leadership, underscoring its ongoing relevance as an economic and political heavyweight in the North and across the country.

The visit has fueled speculation about potential opposition alliances ahead of future elections, given Kwankwaso’s influence in Kano and Obi’s cross-party outreach.

Obi closed his message with his familiar rallying cry, “A new Nigeria is POssible,” reaffirming his vision for a renewed, inclusive nation built on shared purpose and c

ollective effort.