Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for stronger cooperation between Northern Nigeria and the South-East, saying reconciliation is vital to national unity and long-term development.
According to a report by Daily Post published on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Kwankwaso made the remarks during an interview with BBC Igbo, where he stressed the importance of forgiveness and collaboration among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
The former Kano State governor said political leaders in the North have embraced the need to strengthen ties with the South-East, arguing that lasting peace can only be achieved through mutual understanding and cooperation.
Kwankwaso pointed to Nigeria’s political history as evidence that national interest can transcend regional differences. He cited the late Biafran leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, whose participation in national politics after the civil war, he said, demonstrated the possibility of reconciliation.
He also referenced the late former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, noting that his collaboration with political parties that enjoyed strong Northern support reflected a long tradition of cross-regional political cooperation.
According to Kwankwaso, these historical examples show that meaningful partnerships across regional lines are possible when leaders remain committed to the country’s collective progress. He added that national development depends on dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared determination to overcome past divisions.
He further urged Nigerians to see themselves as members of one united nation rather than allowing historical disagreements to define present-day relationships, saying both leaders and citizens have a responsibility to promote peaceful coexistence and work together to address the country’s challenges.
“We can’t be in the same country and start fighting, we need to have the spirit of forgiveness, so I’m happy that we in the North have decided to go back to history and work with the South-East,” Kwankwaso said.
