The All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that it is prepared to receive the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, if he decides to join the ruling party.
This position comes amid growing political changes in Kano State following the recent defection of Governor Abba Yusuf and several lawmakers from the NNPP to the APC.
The APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, made this known while speaking on a television programme over the weekend.
He said the party has not entered into any formal discussion with Kwankwaso but would not block his entry if he chooses to move over.
“Our doors are still open for Kwankwaso to join the APC. If he comes, he’s most welcome. Though we are not yet in negotiation with him,” Yilwatda said.
He explained that the APC remains a broad political platform and is open to politicians who share its vision and are willing to work within its structure. According to him, recent defections across the country show that many political actors are reassessing their positions ahead of future elections.
Yilwatda’s comments come days after Governor Abba Yusuf, members of the Kano State House of Assembly and some federal lawmakers officially left the NNPP for the APC. The development has further reshaped Kano’s political balance and sparked intense reactions from party leaders and supporters.
Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and presidential candidate of the NNPP in the 2023 election, has remained a central figure in the unfolding political drama. His next move is being closely watched by political observers, especially as talks of realignments ahead of 2027 continue to grow.
Beyond party politics, the APC chairman also defended President Bola Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips, saying they are part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s international standing.
“Because of his experience, exposure and connections, what he can connect in one day will take most of us years to gain and achieve,” he said.
Yilwatda stated that the President’s travels are not for leisure but for national interest. He noted that Tinubu uses such visits to attract foreign investors, secure bilateral agreements and engage global partners on security and economic issues.
“For this man to sacrifice for this country, to move around, attract investment, work on security and negotiate bilateral agreements, should we take that for granted?” he asked.
He added that Nigeria stands to benefit from stronger international partnerships, especially at a time when the country is seeking solutions to economic challenges and insecurity.
