Nasir El-rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has emphatically stated his intention to abstain from vying for any political office in the upcoming 2027 general elections. This declaration, made during a reception for defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna, underscores El-rufai’s shift in political focus from personal ambition to mentorship and support for credible leadership. He clarified that his renewed engagement in politics is driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering a new generation of political leaders, rather than a pursuit of personal power. This commitment stems from his observation of unfolding national developments which he believes necessitates experienced guidance to navigate the complex political landscape.
El-rufai’s decision represents a significant departure from his previous trajectory as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. Having served as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and two-term Governor of Kaduna State, he had initially planned to retire from active politics after completing his gubernatorial tenure in 2023. However, he felt compelled to return to the political arena, albeit in a different capacity, to contribute to the development of effective and accountable governance. He stressed that his current role is centered on nurturing the political aspirations of young people, women, and reform-minded individuals across the country, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to actively participate in shaping the nation’s future.
The former governor’s decision to step back from electoral politics signals a potential transition to a more behind-the-scenes role, leveraging his experience and influence to shape the political landscape indirectly. He emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance, especially for emerging leaders who may lack the experience and networks necessary to navigate the complexities of Nigerian politics. By focusing on empowering the next generation of leaders, El-rufai aims to contribute to a more robust and representative political system. This approach suggests a long-term vision for positive change within the political sphere, focusing on sustainable capacity building rather than immediate personal gains.
El-rufai’s call for increased youth participation in politics, particularly through voter registration, further emphasizes his commitment to empowering a new generation of leaders. Recognizing the significant demographic weight of young people in Nigeria, he stressed the importance of their active involvement in shaping the country’s political future. He urged young people across Kaduna State and the nation to register to vote, emphasizing the power of their collective voice to bring about meaningful change in the political landscape. This call to action underscores his belief in the transformative potential of youth engagement in democratic processes.
This renewed focus on mentorship and youth engagement highlights a broader trend in Nigerian politics, with increasing calls for greater inclusion and representation of diverse voices. El-rufai’s decision to step away from electoral politics and focus on fostering emerging leaders aligns with this growing movement towards a more participatory and inclusive political system. By empowering young people, women, and reform-minded individuals, he aims to contribute to a more representative political landscape that reflects the diversity and dynamism of Nigerian society.
In summary, El-rufai’s declaration not to contest in the 2027 elections signifies a strategic shift in his political engagement. He aims to leverage his experience and influence to cultivate a new generation of political leaders who are committed to good governance and reform. This move underscores the importance of mentorship and youth participation in strengthening democratic processes and building a more representative and accountable political system in Nigeria. His call for increased voter registration among young people reinforces his belief in their power to shape the nation’s political future, fostering a more dynamic and participatory democracy.
