The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has identified Kano State as a key starting point for Nigeria’s economic transformation, saying the country’s recovery would be difficult without restoring the state’s commercial strength.
Obi made the declaration during a visit to Kano on Saturday, November 14, 2026, where he attended the fifth convocation ceremony of Skyline University Nigeria.
A video of his remarks was shared on X by @dammiedammie35.
Speaking on the economic significance of the state, the former Anambra State governor described Kano as a major centre of commerce whose prosperity could have a far-reaching impact on the North and the Nigerian economy.
“If you want to fix the North, if you want to fix Nigeria, you’ll start from Kano. Kano represents the soul of business in Nigeria,” Obi said.
His remarks reflect his emphasis on economic revival, particularly the restoration of Kano’s industrial and trading capacity.
The state has historically been one of Northern Nigeria’s leading commercial centres, with its markets, manufacturing hubs and extensive trading networks supporting economic activities across the region.
Obi had previously called for the revival of Kano’s industrial sector, specifically identifying the Bompai and Sharada industrial areas, which once housed numerous factories. During a Sallah visit to former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in March 2026, he also advocated the restoration of the state’s economic strength.
“We want to change Kano. We want to build a new Kano,” Obi had said, adding that efforts should be directed towards bringing back industries in Bompai and Sharada.
The latest remarks come as the NDC intensifies its political activities ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Obi is the party’s presidential candidate, while Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and leader of the Kwankwasiyya political movement, is his running mate.
The Obi-Kwankwaso ticket brings together two prominent opposition figures with political bases in different parts of the country, as the party seeks to strengthen its support ahead of the polls.
