Obi, Kwankwaso Promise Security, Education In Sokoto

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said education, security and national unity will form the core priorities of his administration if elected in the 2027 general elections.

Obi spoke on Thursday in Sokoto during a town hall meeting with NDC delegates, party leaders and supporters at the Sokoto Guest Inn.

The former Anambra State governor, who was accompanied by his running mate, former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, said the engagement was part of the party’s nationwide consultations.

He said the NDC’s campaign would be driven by the needs of citizens rather than imposed policies, noting that leaders must first listen to the people before formulating programmes.

“Our number one agenda for the people of Nigeria is education, security and peaceful coexistence among Nigerian citizens,” Obi said.

He said investment in education remains critical to developing Nigeria’s human capital and creating opportunities for its large youth population.

On security, Obi said his administration would prioritise the protection of communities affected by kidnapping, violence and displacement.

“NDC is committed to providing security to Sokoto State and other parts of the country,” he said.

He added that citizens should be able to move freely and conduct their daily activities without fear, saying Nigerians should be able to “travel, conduct businesses, cultivate their farms and carry out their daily activities without fear.”

Obi also called for an end to divisive politics and for a focus on unity.

“We don’t want these politics of tribalism, politics of religion. No. We want politics of unity, politics of love, politics of care,” he said.

He further proposed connecting state capitals by rail to ease movement and boost economic integration.

“We will ensure that all state capitals are linked with railway lines to enhance the transportation of goods and services,” he said.

Obi listed job creation, poverty reduction, vocational and skills development, healthcare, and youth and women empowerment as other priority areas.

In his remarks, Kwankwaso said the delegation had earlier visited the Sultan of Sokoto to seek his prayers and blessings ahead of the polls. He decried insecurity in rural communities.

“Many people in the rural parts of Sokoto State were killed, kidnapped or displaced with no cause,” Kwankwaso said.

He urged supporters to mobilise peacefully and in line with electoral laws, emphasising grassroots participation.

Earlier, the Sokoto State Chairman of the NDC, Bello Sani Yabo, said the party is strengthening its structures across the 23 local government areas of the state and described Obi’s engagement as a demonstration of the party’s commitment to direct interaction with citizens.

The NDC governorship candidate in the state, Dr Shamsudeen Haido, also urged residents to participate actively in the electoral process.

The town hall is part of intensified consultations and grassroots mobilisation by political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.