By MUHAMMAD NASIR

Ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections, a new political movement under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the Nasiru El-Rufai Solidarity Group, also known as Nasiriya on Thursday inaugurated in Sokoto State.

The group’s National Coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Babuga, who led the inauguration of the new state leadership, described the movement as a strategic initiative to support the anticipated presidential ambition of the former Kaduna State Governor.

Babuga stated d that Nasiriya was a rapidly expanding political and social movement grounded in reformist ideals and committed to the values of good governance, inclusivity, and youth empowerment.

“The organisation operates under the SDP and has gained significant traction across Northern Nigeria, especially in Kaduna, Kano, Maiduguri, Niger, Katsina, and Sokoto states.

“It aims to provide a viable alternative platform for progressive-minded Nigerians who are disenchanted with the status quo.

“Our core principles are rooted in accountability, transparency, and equitable development; values inspired by El-Rufai’s leadership record in public office,” he said.

Babuga also called for increased female participation in the 2027 elections, promising the group’s full support for any woman interested in contesting for political office.

He urged SDP supporters to continue mobilising grassroots support and to champion the party’s transformational agenda.

In his remarks, Alhaji Sani Romo, the SDP Chairman in Sokoto State, highlighted the party’s presence in the state since 1992 and its active role in past elections.

He described El-Rufai’s entry into the SDP as a major boost and a litmus test for the party’s ambition to become Nigeria’s leading political force.

“To our teeming youth, I assure you that the SDP remains committed to partnering with you in building a brighter future and delivering responsible leadership,” he said.

Also speaking, Alhaji Sunusi Gidadawa, the State Grand Patron of the group, said the movement was borne out of shared ideals and a collective desire to create a better future, especially for Northern Nigeria.

He stressed the need for visionary leadership that would restore the region’s lost glory in areas such as security, agriculture, and peaceful coexistence.

“With this movement, we are confident that the challenges facing our region will be addressed, and the North will witness renewed progress and prosperity,” Gidadawa affirmed.

Earlier, Mr Sunusi Lamido, the State Coordinator of Nasiriya, pledged to continue mobilising support to ensure the success of the movement.

He praised El-Rufai’s leadership qualities as the motivation behind their unwavering commitment and urged the members to remain steadfast in their support. (NAN)