By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Kano
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has called for the revival of Kano’s industrial base, with particular focus on key manufacturing hubs such as Bompai and Sharada.
Obi made the call during the annual “kalankuwa” gathering of the Kwankwasiyya movement held at the residence of its leader and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as part of Sallah celebrations.
Addressing a large crowd of supporters, Obi said his visit was primarily to celebrate the festive season and honour Kwankwaso, whom he described as a respected political leader.
“I’m here to felicitate with you on the occasion of the Sallah and to pay my respects to our leader,” he told the gathering.
He, however, used the opportunity to stress the need to restore Kano’s status as a major industrial and commercial hub in Nigeria.
According to him, reviving moribund industries across the state would significantly boost economic activities and create employment opportunities for the people.
“We want to change Kano. We want to build a new Kano. What we want to do is to make sure that we bring back the power of Kano,” Obi said.
He identified industrial clusters such as Bompai, Sharada Phase I and II, as well as legacy institutions like the Bank of the North, as critical assets that should be revitalised.
Obi emphasised that his presence at the event was not for political campaigning but to share in the Sallah celebrations with the people.
“Today is not about politics; it is the celebration of Sallah. May Almighty Allah bless all of you,” he added.
The event also drew other prominent political figures, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson.
Kwankwaso, in a message shared on his official social media platforms, described the gathering as a joyful Sallah celebration with distinguished guests.
“Delighted to host Their Excellencies, Peter Obi, Seyi Makinde, and Seriake Dickson at my Kano residence for this joyful Sallah celebration. Wishing everyone peace, blessings, and prosperity,” he stated.
The high-profile visit comes amid ongoing political consultations and realignments across party lines, with observers linking such engagements to potential coalition-building ahead of future elections.
