The convention, held in preparation for the 2027 general elections, also featured the formal zoning of the party’s presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria.

Kwankwaso, who recently joined the NDC after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), used the platform to express concern over Nigeria’s worsening living conditions and governance challenges, noting that citizens deserve better leadership.

He urged the party to position itself as a strong and credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.

Below is the full text of his speech:

“Fellow Nigerians,

“It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of fulfilment that I address you today on this historic occasion of the National Convention of our great party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in Abuja.

“Since we joined this party, together with numerous stakeholders, millions of supporters, and well-meaning Nigerians, the NDC has continued to attract quality members and ignite enthusiastic conversations among citizens and observers both at home and abroad. What began as a bold movement is steadily becoming a formidable platform for national renewal.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. The world is undergoing a profound geopolitical shift, yet our nation has been caught unprepared, largely because of poor leadership. Instead of positioning Nigeria to seize emerging opportunities, bad governance has left us bearing the brunt of global changes.

“We are witnessing a sharp decline in the quality of life. Insecurity has created widows and orphans across the land. Millions have been displaced from their homes. Investments are fleeing, critical infrastructure is neglected, the education system is collapsing, and harsh economic policies have been imposed on citizens without meaningful safety nets or relief.

“Yet Nigeria’s history teaches us that in our most challenging moments, visionary alliances have provided the way forward. In 1954, a historic partnership was formed between the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by Aminu Kano, and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by Nnamdi Azikiwe, to achieve national unity.

“Again, in 1960, against steep odds, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe’s NCNC formed a coalition with the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) to birth our independence.

“In the Second Republic, the alliance between Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) helped restore civilian rule and national unity after years of military dictatorship.

“It is therefore with a great sense of unity and solidarity that, as a loyal party member, I support the decision to zone the presidential ticket of the NDC to the South, so that the region can complete its turn in producing national leadership.

“This represents a true opportunity for national healing. We shall work in line with the party’s agreement to ensure fairness and federal character in all ramifications.

“This party shall also ensure a change in the way things are done by prioritising leadership without ethnic or religious bias.

“The leadership standard we shall set will restore Nigeria’s dignity and guarantee that citizens at home and in the diaspora are treated with respect.

“Finally, we can only achieve this by continuing to mobilise, register with INEC, and vote for the NDC to be part of this noble cause. Please register today.

“Thank you.

“Long Live the Nigeria Democratic Congress!

“Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!”

reports that Kwankwaso said the move reflects the party’s power-sharing structure and commitment to fairness and regional balance.

He made the remarks during the NDC national convention in Abuja, where he addressed delegates, supporters, and party stakeholders.

Kwankwaso explained that he supports the zoning arrangement to allow the South complete its eight-year rotational cycle.

According to him, the decision is consistent with the party’s established zoning principles and internal agreements.

He also called on Nigerians and party members to actively participate in the NDC’s mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections, urging them to register and get involved.

His endorsement came shortly after the NDC officially adopted a resolution zoning its 2027 presidential ticket to the South for a single four-year term.

The decision was reached during the party’s national convention following a motion moved by Afam Victor Ogene, the lawmaker representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency in Anambra State.

Announcing the resolution, NDC National Chairman Moses Cleopas said the zoning arrangement is part of a broader power-sharing formula designed to balance regional interests within the opposition coalition.

Cleopas added that the presidential ticket would return to the North in 2031 after the South completes its tenure.

He further confirmed that the party’s National Executive Committee also ratified the election of members of the National Working Committee during the convention.

The zoning decision is expected to strengthen the chances of southern aspirants, including former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, ahead of the party’s presidential primary.