By Obianuju Uzukwu
In a move symbolic of strategic political shift, and renewed commitment for national unity, peace, and development, a powerful delegation of South-East leaders, on Friday, October 24, 2025, visited NNPP National Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, PhD, FNSE, at his Maitama residence in Abuja, to deliberate on the state of the nation and the quest for inclusive governance.
The delegation, led by Chief S. N. Okeke, former Chairman of the Police Service Commission and current Chairman of the Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, included among others His Excellency, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Governor of Enugu State and former National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The visit, described as both strategic and symbolic, was aimed at deepening dialogue on the state of the nation, particularly the urgent need to strengthen national unity, peace, and sustainable development in the face of prevailing socio-political challenges. The leaders also used the visit to felicitate with the former governor of Kano State and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party on the occasion of his 69th birth,
Chief Okeke, speaking on behalf of the delegation, noted that the country stands at a defining moment that requires the collective wisdom, patriotism, and cooperation of visionary leaders like Senator Kwankwaso. He commended the NNPP leader for his consistency in advocating for inclusive governance, youth empowerment, and equitable development across Nigeria’s regions.
“Nigeria needs bridge builders, not dividers. This visit is a demonstration of our shared commitment to peace, understanding, and development across ethnic and political lines,” Chief Okeke said.
In his remarks, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo lauded Senator Kwankwaso’s leadership and political foresight, describing him as a national asset whose ideas on education, infrastructure, and governance continue to inspire public discourse. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among regional leaders to address insecurity, economic instability, and other pressing national issues through dialogue and partnership.
Responding, Senator Kwankwaso expressed deep appreciation to the delegation for their visit and their warm felicitations on his 69th birthday anniversary. He thanked them for their goodwill and reaffirmed his belief in the unity of Nigeria built on justice, fairness, and mutual respect.
“Our diversity should be our strength. What we need now is sincerity of purpose and leadership that places national interest above all else,” Kwankwaso stated.
The NNPP leader further reiterated his readiness to continue working with well-meaning Nigerians across regions and political divides to promote peace, development, and a new vision of hope for the country.
The visit, which combined statesmanship with solidarity, was seen as part of ongoing consultations among Nigeria’s political elders and opinion leaders towards building consensus for national renewal and ensuring that the gains of democracy translate into real development for all citizens.
Thank you for such a thorough and thoughtful article.