As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves in the buildup to the 2027 general elections, the role of influential party stalwarts becomes increasingly critical, none more so than Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State. Amid shifting alliances and regional dynamics, Ganduje’s strategic foresight and political architecture continue to shape the party’s future, particularly in Kano and across the Northwest. Even after his exit as APC’s national chairman, Ganduje’s relevance within the party structure remains firmly intact. This is evident in how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his recent address in Abuja, acknowledged Ganduje’s immense contributions to party building, most notably his establishment of the APC Progressive Institute, a policy think tank aimed at fostering ideological clarity and leadership grooming within the ruling party. Positioning the APC in Kano Kano, one of Nigeria’s most politically consequential states, remains a key battleground for 2027. For Ganduje, whose tenure as governor solidified his reputation as a grassroots mobilizer and political tactician, the state represents both a legacy and a laboratory for his continued political influence. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje In recent years, Dr. Ganduje has quietly but effectively repositioned APC structures across Kano’s 44 local government areas, engaging party elders, youth blocs, and emerging stakeholders. His efforts have centered on reconciliation, inclusivity, and strategic expansion particularly in districts where the party’s performance had declined. Moreover, Ganduje’s extensive network of loyalists across state and federal institutions, including the Progressive Governors’ Forum, provides the APC with a formidable political engine in Kano. This influence is expected to be instrumental when the party begins its search for a governorship candidate. Eye on 2027: Candidate Selection and Unity One of the most anticipated roles Ganduje is expected to play is in the selection of a viable APC governorship aspirant for Kano State. As a former two-term governor, party leader, and elder statesman, his endorsement will carry significant weight, not just among party members but within the broader electorate. Political analysts argue that Ganduje’s approach will likely prioritize unity, competence, and continuity. He has repeatedly emphasized the need for APC to field candidates who embody discipline, loyalty, and mass appeal, that is the qualities he believes are non-negotiable in Kano’s volatile political atmosphere. Importantly, his track record suggests that he will use his influence not merely to install a loyalist, but to stabilize the party through consensus-building and strategic dialogue with stakeholders across factions. National and Zonal Contributions Beyond Kano, Ganduje’s contributions to the APC in the Northwest are equally significant. During his time as National Chairman, he worked to reconcile feuding party factions in states like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi, laying the groundwork for a stronger zonal presence ahead of 2027. His tenure also saw the inclusion of more Northern professionals, women, and youth in party leadership, a move aimed at rebranding APC as a forward-looking and inclusive party. Even now, Ganduje remains a key adviser on national matters, particularly on Northern political strategy and grassroots mobilization. His ongoing mentorship of emerging leaders and his family’s growing presence in public service, such as Engr. Umar Abdullahi Umar Ganduje at the Rural Electrification Agency and Dr. Asiya Ganduje at the Northwest Development Commission, signal a continuity of vision and influence. A Lasting Political Legacy Dr. Ganduje’s political journey is far from over. As he transitions into the role of a statesman and kingmaker, his enduring relevance lies not just in his titles, but in his ability to galvanize support, build bridges, and steer APC through uncharted political waters. In a period where political loyalty is often fleeting and ideological direction uncertain, Ganduje stands as one of the few with both the experience and vision to provide steady leadership. Political analyst believed his actions in future time will not only shape APC’s fortunes in Kano but could also define its national trajectory. Umar Idris Shuaibu writes from Kano.
