The National Democratic Party (NDC) Vice-Presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has said political appointments under an NDC-led government would be based primarily on competence, experience and the needs of the country.
Kwankwaso made the statement on Sunday in Abuja while featuring on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Personality Interview Series.
He said an NDC administration, if elected in 2027, would not appoint people simply because of political connections or personal relationships.
According to him, the country needs qualified technocrats, professionals and experienced politicians to effectively manage its ministries, departments and agencies.
“Power will be shared according to the needs of the country; technocrats and qualified politicians with prerequisite knowledge will be appointed,” he said.
Kwankwaso explained that the President and Vice-President could not manage the country alone, making it necessary to appoint capable people to support the administration.
He said specialised ministries should be headed by people with the relevant professional knowledge and experience required to deliver results.
The former Kano State governor and civil engineer also argued that technocrats should not necessarily be viewed as people outside politics, noting that some politicians have strong professional backgrounds.
Kwankwaso said an NDC government would also avoid unnecessary delays in forming its cabinet after inauguration.
He noted that elected officials have only four years to fulfil their mandates and should therefore begin working immediately after assuming office.
The former Defence Minister said competence, experience and capacity would be key considerations in selecting individuals to serve in government.
He also said he was comfortable with the possibility of serving as vice-president because public service should focus on contributing to national development rather than simply pursuing political positions.
Kwankwaso added that effective delegation of responsibilities to competent appointees would help an NDC administration deliver better governance and improved outcomes for Nigerians.
Source: NAN Personality Interview Series.
