President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, hosted Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, a key political figure and close associate of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), in a closed-door meeting at the State House in Abuja.
The meeting comes at a politically sensitive moment, as speculation continues to swirl over a possible defection of Kwankwaso and his loyalists to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
These developments follow a wave of sharp criticism from Kwankwaso, the NNPP’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, who recently accused the Tinubu-led administration of neglecting northern interests, particularly in the areas of development and representation.
The conversation between Tinubu and Jibrin, who represents the Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, reportedly centered on pressing national issues.
While speaking to journalists shortly after the meeting, Jibrin was measured in his responses. He neither confirmed nor denied talks of a formal realignment but acknowledged that political possibilities remain fluid.
“I don’t think it’s the right time to have that conversation,” Jibrin said when asked if he planned to rejoin the APC. “But everything is open, and every possibility remains on the table. The most important thing is the unity and stability of the country. And I believe that when we get to that bridge, we’ll cross it.”
Observers believe the timing of Jibrin’s visit is significant, as it follows closely on the heels of a private meeting between Kwankwaso and President Tinubu on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the President’s residence within the Aso Rock Villa.
That earlier meeting, which was also held behind closed doors, has triggered intense speculation about potential political reconciliation or coalition-building ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing suggestions that his visit might be part of efforts to ease the apparent tensions between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, Jibrin dismissed any notion of a serious rift. Instead, he portrayed both leaders as experienced politicians with a shared vision for national progress.
“The President is a first-class politician, and so is the national leader of the NNPP,” Jibrin stated. “I believe both men are committed to the peace, unity, and prosperity of Nigeria. So, regardless of recent comments, I don’t think my presence at the Villa should be seen as unusual or cause for concern.”
He also responded to questions about Kwankwaso’s recent criticisms of Tinubu’s performance, particularly concerning northern Nigeria. Jibrin offered a diplomatic view, emphasizing the importance of constructive feedback in a democratic society.
“Every leader does their best—it just depends on how you choose to evaluate them,” he said. “Some people see the cup as half full, others as half empty. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. In fact, such opinions can help deepen public discourse and, in some cases, may even become a blessing in disguise.”
With the political atmosphere heating up ahead of the 2027 elections, the sequence of high-profile meetings involving Tinubu, Kwankwaso, and now Jibrin, is being closely watched. Analysts suggest these interactions may signal a potential alliance, merger, or broader strategic positioning, especially in the northern political bloc, which remains pivotal to electoral success in Nigeria.