Former Kano State governor and presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has announced his resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party, marking a significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Kwankwaso made the announcement in a statement dated March 29, 2026, where he said his resignation takes immediate effect. The former governor expressed gratitude to the party for giving him the opportunity to serve as its National Leader and presidential candidate during the 2023 general elections.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with immediate effect,” the statement read.
He described his time in the party as an honour and said the decision to leave was not an easy one. According to him, he remained a committed member throughout his stay but had to step aside due to changing political realities in the country.
“As a committed and bonafide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make,” he said.
Kwankwaso explained that his decision was influenced by what he described as the need for “strategic realignment” in response to the current direction of Nigeria’s political environment. He noted that he intends to join another political platform that he believes offers a better chance to bring about meaningful change in the country.
“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” he stated.
The announcement has sparked discussions among political observers and party supporters, many of whom see the move as a sign of possible shifts ahead of future elections. While Kwankwaso did not disclose the political party he plans to join, analysts believe his next step could have a strong impact on alliances, especially in northern Nigeria where he has a large support base.
Kwankwaso is a well-known figure in Nigerian politics. He served as governor of Kano State from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2011 to 2015. He also served as a minister of defence and later as a senator representing Kano Central. Over the years, he has built a strong political following, particularly through the Kwankwasiyya Movement, a group known for its grassroots mobilisation and loyalty.
In the 2023 general elections, Kwankwaso contested for the presidency under the NNPP. Although he did not win the election, he performed strongly in Kano State and some parts of the North-West, showing his continued influence in the region.
The NNPP, which gained attention during the 2023 elections, positioned itself as an alternative to Nigeria’s two dominant political parties — the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party. Kwankwaso’s candidacy played a key role in boosting the party’s visibility and support base at the time.
In his resignation statement, Kwankwaso thanked the leadership of the party for their support during his time as a member. He specifically mentioned the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, as well as members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and other party organs.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, and the entire National Working Committee for their steadfast support,” he said.
He also acknowledged party members at all levels, from ward to state, and praised the dedication of supporters of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. According to him, their commitment played an important role in the party’s activities and achievements.
Despite his resignation, Kwankwaso suggested that he may continue to work with individuals and groups within the party towards a common goal of national development.
“We shall continue to collaborate and work together towards charting a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation,” he added.
In recent years, several high-profile politicians have switched parties, often citing similar reasons such as the need for better opportunities or disagreements within their former parties. Such moves often reshape political alignments and influence voting patterns across different regions.
Kwankwaso’s resignation is likely to have a strong impact in Kano State, where he remains one of the most influential political figures. His supporters are expected to follow his next political move closely, which could affect the strength of political parties in the state and beyond.
As of the time of filing this report, the NNPP has not issued an official response to Kwankwaso’s resignation. It is also unclear how the party plans to manage the gap left by his exit, given his role as a key leader and public face of the party.
His resignation marks another moment in Nigeria’s dynamic political scene, where alliances continue to shift as leaders seek new paths to power and influence.