President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday held a closed-door meeting with Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, a close political associate of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader, Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The meeting comes amid growing speculation over a potential defection of Kwankwaso and his loyalists to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following the former Kano governor’s recent criticisms of the Tinubu administration.
Jibrin, a former lawmaker who represented Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency in Kano State, and a known ally of both Tinubu and Kwankwaso, told journalists that discussions with the President centred on national unity and pressing issues of public interest.
When asked about a possible return to the APC, Jibrin remained cautious but hinted at future developments. “I don’t think it’s time for that conversation. But everything is open, and anything is a possibility. What matters most is the unity and stability of the country. When we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it,” he said.
On whether the visit was aimed at easing tensions between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, Jibrin said both leaders are experienced statesmen committed to Nigeria’s progress.
“The President is a first-class politician. So is the national leader of the NNPP. Both are deeply committed to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and prosperity. So, I don’t think my presence at the Villa should be viewed as unusual,” he noted.
Responding to Kwankwaso’s remarks questioning Tinubu’s performance in Northern Nigeria, Jibrin adopted a conciliatory tone.
“Every leader does their best. It depends on your perspective—whether you see the cup half full or half empty. But constructive criticism can enrich national discourse. Sometimes, such conversations are blessings in disguise,” he concluded.
