The New Nigeria People’s Party has announced that it will not field a presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, stating instead that it is open to forming alliances with other political parties if a suitable and widely acceptable contender emerges.
The decision was made on Saturday during the party’s 11th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, where delegates also approved the outcomes of recent primary elections in line with the Electoral Act 2026.
Party National Chairman, Bala Yusuf, said the NNPP’s focus at this stage is not on fielding its own presidential flag bearer but on evaluating credible candidates from other parties and possibly supporting a consensus option.
According to him, the party is prioritising national interest over party ambition, stressing that Nigeria’s current challenges require a capable and broadly acceptable leader.
Yusuf also dismissed claims that the party had already entered into any agreement with the African Democratic Congress or any other political platform, insisting that no formal alliance or pact exists.
He further noted that suggestions of backing any specific joint ticket at this stage were premature and not reflective of the party’s position.
Speaking on internal party dynamics, the NNPP National Secretary, Dipo Olayoku, acknowledged that the party had experienced significant setbacks following the defection of several key figures, including former National Leader Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, among others.
Olayoku described the past few years as challenging for the party, noting that many of its elected officials and appointees had left due to political realignments.
Despite the losses, he urged members to remain committed and intensify efforts to rebuild the party’s strength ahead of future elections.
He added that the NNPP would continue to participate actively in the political process, drawing inspiration from its performance in the 2023 elections, when it secured notable victories at various levels of government.