—Says Peter Obi is not driven by greed, vows to prioritize teamwork
The Vice-Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, says he is unperturbed by the common perception of Vice-Presidents being treated as “spare tyres” by their principals.
Speaking during the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Personality Interview Series on Sunday in Abuja, Kwankwaso expressed explicit confidence in the NDC presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, stating that he trusts Obi to honor their mutual understanding.
Kwankwaso noted that the functionality of a Vice-President is entirely dependent on the character and leadership style of the President. He expressed optimism that a proposed Obi-Kwankwaso administration would be built on the pillars of cooperation and the effective delegation of duties.
The former Governor of Kano State cited his extensive administrative background as a Deputy Speaker, Minister, and Governor as his preparation for working within a structured leadership.
“A president who trusts his vice-president and gives him meaningful responsibilities can achieve more for the country. For me, I don’t think I will be sidelined by His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, if we win the 2027 election,” Kwankwaso stated.
Reflecting on his tenure as Governor, Kwankwaso recalled how he deliberately empowered his deputy with substantial responsibilities to ensure more effective governance. He noted that he adopted a similar approach as Minister of Defence by allowing his Minister of State to oversee specific departments.
He warned that political leaders must not allow greed or the desire for absolute control to stifle governance. According to him, a leader achieves more through delegation than by attempting to micromanage every aspect of the state.
Describing Peter Obi as a leader driven by a desire for a legacy of good governance rather than personal gain, Kwankwaso said he is ready to serve in any capacity assigned to him.
“My priority is to serve Nigerians, not for personal aggrandizement,” he said, adding that the success of any administration hinges on mutual trust and the willingness of leaders to place the national interest above personal ambition.
