Shekarau Seeks Senate Comeback, Vows to Promote Unity, Workers’ Welfare

Former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, has declared his intention to return to the Senate, promising to prioritise national unity, pension reforms, and the welfare of Nigerian workers if elected in the 2027 general elections.

Shekarau formally submitted his expression of interest and nomination forms to contest for the Kano Central Senatorial District seat, saying his ambition was rooted in service to both his constituency and the country.

Addressing journalists after submitting the forms, the former governor said leadership ultimately rests in the hands of God, noting that hard work and prayer remained essential in every political contest.

“When you are going into a contest with others, there are always two things; winning and losing,” he said.

“My God has told us in the Holy Quran that it is He who bestows leadership on whoever He decides. The Prophet of Islam asked us to do two things: work for it and pray for it.”

The former Minister of Education expressed confidence that his efforts and prayers would help him secure victory at the polls.

Shekarau, who previously served as senator representing Kano Central, said national interest would remain his top priority if returned to the National Assembly.

“Nigeria first, then my constituency second, because if there is no Nigeria, my constituency will not be there,” he stated.

The former governor also reflected on his record in the Senate, particularly his tenure as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Establishment and Pension.

According to him, he played a key role in pushing for improved welfare for pensioners and workers while ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions on salary and pension reviews.

“The records are there. For the four years I was there, I made sure pensioners were listened to,” he said.

He added that efforts during his time in the Senate helped the National Pension Commission recover outstanding funds owed by the Federal Government.

On national integration, Shekarau said his administration in Kano demonstrated inclusiveness by appointing people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds into government positions.

“While I was governor, I had in my cabinet a Christian South-Easterner, a Yoruba man, a Calabar man, and others,” he said.

“I will continue to promote unity and encourage government at all levels to do the same.”

Shekarau governed Kano State for two terms before serving as Minister of Education and later representing Kano Central in the Senate.