NNPP Reaffirms Stronghold in Kano, Eyes Expansion Across Northern Nigeria Ahead of 2027 Elections
By: James Igbudu
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining its stronghold in Kano State while laying out ambitious plans to expand its influence across other northern states ahead of the 2027 general elections, even as the party faces a recent wave of defections to rival political groups. Speaking on Saturday, the National Chairman of the NNPP, Ajuji Ahmed, addressed concerns arising from the resignation of two of the party’s members of the House of Representatives, Abdulmumin Jibrin and Sagir Koki, who officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) earlier this month. Despite the exit of these lawmakers, Ahmed assured party supporters and stakeholders that the departures did not diminish the strength or prospects of the NNPP in any meaningful way. He described the defections as individual decisions that carry no strategic setback for the party, emphasizing that the party continues to grow in numbers and influence daily, particularly in its stronghold, Kano.
Ahmed’s remarks came at a critical time for the party, which has been navigating internal realignments while also attempting to consolidate its position in northern Nigeria. Speaking candidly, he said, “I have just two words for them: good luck. Their exit is not a minus to NNPP. In fact, more people are joining the party every day, especially in Kano.” He stressed that the party remains confident of retaining Kano in the 2027 gubernatorial and legislative elections and is simultaneously preparing to compete vigorously in other strategic northern states such as Jigawa and Kaduna, both of which have been identified as key battlegrounds in the region. Ahmed highlighted that the NNPP’s strategy includes the flexibility to run independently or form strategic alliances with other political entities if such partnerships can strengthen its chances of electoral success.
The NNPP chairman also revisited the party’s performance in recent elections, pointing out that while the party had significant victories in Taraba State, it lost the mandate under contested circumstances. “We are confident that with the support of our members and stakeholders, the NNPP will reclaim more seats in 2027 and assert its influence across northern Nigeria,” Ahmed stated, stressing that the party’s commitment to grassroots mobilization and strategic political engagement remains unwavering. He further underscored that recent defections should not be interpreted as a reflection of weakness but rather as normal dynamics in Nigeria’s multi-party political landscape, where individual lawmakers may pursue personal political interests without undermining the broader objectives of their party.
According to Ahmed, the party continues to receive a steady inflow of new members, particularly among young voters and political enthusiasts who identify with the NNPP’s ideology and leadership approach. He emphasized that Kano State remains the core base of the party, and efforts to consolidate and strengthen this base are ongoing. “Our work in Kano is visible, and our presence is recognized. We are focused on maintaining our leadership role in the state while gradually extending our influence to neighboring states where opportunities exist,” he said. The chairman also made a point to stress that loyalty, dedication, and active participation remain central to the party’s philosophy, and that members who leave voluntarily do so at their own risk without affecting the party’s strategic trajectory.
The recent wave of defections from the NNPP, which has included not only Jibrin and Koki but several other lawmakers from Kano and Jigawa states, has been attributed to a variety of internal factors. Some of these include disagreements over party leadership decisions, allocation of tickets, and the distribution of political appointments. However, Ahmed maintained that these are isolated cases and not indicative of a systemic problem within the party. He argued that defections are part of the political environment and that the NNPP’s internal mechanisms for conflict resolution and party cohesion remain robust. “Politics is dynamic. People will make choices, and that is their prerogative, but the strength and commitment of the NNPP remain intact. Our growth trajectory has not been slowed by any of these developments,” he noted.
The chairman also touched on the party’s broader electoral strategy, highlighting the importance of building coalitions, engaging civil society groups, and nurturing young leaders who are capable of sustaining the party’s vision for northern Nigeria. He emphasized that the party has been actively investing in political education and grassroots mobilization to ensure that supporters are well-informed and engaged in all aspects of governance and electoral participation. According to Ahmed, the NNPP’s approach is rooted in a long-term vision for political stability and development, focusing not only on winning elections but also on delivering on promises that resonate with constituents.
Ahmed’s comments also addressed speculation that the NNPP might be losing ground due to internal instability. He categorically denied these claims, stressing that the party remains solid, disciplined, and capable of mounting strong electoral campaigns in Kano and across northern Nigeria. He praised the loyalty of party officials and grassroots members who continue to advocate for the NNPP despite the challenges posed by defections. “We are encouraged by the growing number of supporters who join us daily. The movement is gaining momentum, and our message resonates with people who are seeking genuine representation,” he said.
As part of the party’s expansion strategy, Ahmed noted that the NNPP is intensifying its outreach to voters in Jigawa, Kaduna, and other northern states where the party sees potential to grow its influence. He explained that these efforts involve both political campaigns and community engagement programs designed to demonstrate the party’s commitment to good governance and development. According to Ahmed, the party’s success in expanding its influence will depend on consistent engagement with constituents, promotion of inclusive policies, and the ability to field credible candidates capable of winning the confidence of the electorate.
The NNPP chairman concluded by reaffirming the party’s commitment to democratic principles and its readiness to contest the 2027 elections vigorously. He reiterated the party’s confidence in Kano State as its stronghold, while emphasizing that expansion to other northern states is a deliberate and carefully calculated strategy. “We are optimistic about our future. The NNPP remains committed to giving the people of Kano and the entire northern region a political alternative that prioritizes their needs and aspirations. We are ready for the challenges ahead and confident that 2027 will mark another successful chapter in our party’s history,” Ahmed said.
Despite the challenges posed by defections, Ahmed’s remarks provide a clear indication that the NNPP is focused on long-term political strategy and resilience. The party’s leadership appears intent on consolidating its base in Kano, strengthening its organizational structure, and positioning itself as a viable alternative in northern Nigerian politics. Analysts suggest that if the NNPP maintains this approach, it could significantly influence the political landscape of northern Nigeria, particularly in key states where electoral outcomes are often decisive in determining national power dynamics.
As the 2027 elections approach, all eyes will be on the NNPP’s ability to maintain unity, attract new members, and leverage its existing support base to expand its reach. The recent defections, while a challenge, may ultimately serve to galvanize the party’s leadership and supporters, reinforcing the NNPP’s image as a resilient and strategically minded political force capable of competing effectively against established parties such as the APC and PDP.
