Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has disclosed that his daughter encouraged him to collaborate with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the build-up to the 2023 general elections in Nigeria. Kwankwaso made the revelation during an interview on ARISE News on Monday while discussing the changing political mindset among Nigerian youths and the growing influence of social media in shaping political decisions across the country. According to the former governor, the younger generation is gradually moving away from politics centered on ethnicity and religion. Instead, many young Nigerians are now paying more attention to competence, accountability, and leadership qualities when choosing political leaders. Speaking during the interview, Kwankwaso explained that the political opinions of younger citizens are becoming increasingly different from those of the older generation. He noted that many youths are now focused on leaders capable of solving the country’s economic and social problems rather than leaders who rely on ethnic or religious sentiments to gain support. “Even during the 2023 general election, in my own house, my daughter advised me to go and work with Peter Obi,” Kwankwaso stated. The former Kano State governor further emphasized that many political leaders in Nigeria have failed to properly engage with young people despite their growing population and influence in national politics. According to him, a significant number of politicians rarely interact with young men and women, making it difficult for them to fully understand the priorities and expectations of the younger generation. Kwankwaso stressed that the emergence of digital platforms and social media has transformed the country’s political environment. He explained that Nigerian youths are now more politically informed and are actively participating in conversations about governance, economic development, insecurity, and national unity. He added that younger voters are increasingly demanding transparent and credible leadership that can effectively tackle the country’s challenges. “Some people are talking about religion, while others are focused on ethnicity, but many young people are searching for the right leadership for this country, and I believe they are correct,” he added. Political observers believe the statement reflects the growing political awareness among Nigerian youths, especially after the 2023 elections, where young voters played a major role in political discussions both online and offline. The 2023 presidential election witnessed increased participation from young Nigerians who used social media platforms to campaign, share political opinions, and mobilize support for preferred candidates. Analysts say this trend may continue to shape future elections in the country. Experts have also pointed out that the increasing political consciousness among youths could influence how political parties select candidates and design campaign strategies ahead of future elections. For many Nigerians, the comments from Kwankwaso highlight the widening shift in political priorities among the younger generation, with more attention now being placed on governance, economic growth, security, job creation, and national development.
