El-Rufai rules out 2027 ambition, Says He’s back to mentor youth, Support credible leadership

Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has officially announced that he will not be contesting for any political office in the upcoming 2027 general elections, emphasizing that his return to political engagement is driven by a desire to support credible leadership and mentor future reformers—not personal ambition.

Speaking in Kaduna on Wednesday while welcoming defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), El-Rufai clarified his current political position.

“I am not contesting for anything. I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not seeking any position,” he stated firmly.

The former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) disclosed that his initial plan after completing his tenure as Kaduna governor in 2023 was to withdraw from partisan politics and enjoy a period of rest. However, he said the “unfolding national developments” compelled him to return, particularly in a mentoring capacity.

“When I finished my tenure as governor, I intended to rest. But given the way things have turned out, I believe we must play our part to bring about better leadership. That is why we are back in politics,” El-Rufai explained.

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He stressed that his renewed engagement will focus on mentoring young Nigerians, women, and reform-minded citizens to take active roles in governance and political leadership.

The ex-governor also used the opportunity to encourage youth participation, calling on young people in Kaduna and across the country to register to vote and play a more active role in shaping the country’s future.

“The change we seek will not come unless young people take charge. Participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise. That is how we begin to reshape our political future,” he urged.

El-Rufai’s statement comes amid speculation about his political future and rumors of potential interest in national office. His declaration appears to put those speculations to rest—for now.