2027: Ibrahim Ado Iliyasu Kwali Unveils Economic Rescue Plan, Says NDC Will Dethrone APC
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, Dr. Ibrahim Ado Iliyasu Kwali, MCArb, FICMC, has called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange reforms.
Dr. Ado-Iliyasu, a World-Class Chartered Arbitrator and President of the North Central People’s Development Initiative, made the call while appearing on Kaftan TV, where he assessed the state of the Nigerian economy and proposed measures he believes could restore economic stability.
He said the Federal Government should establish an independent investigative panel to examine the subsidy regime, the impact of its removal and the utilisation of funds reportedly saved from the policy.
According to him, Nigerians deserve a comprehensive assessment of the reforms to determine whether they are delivering the desired results and to identify areas requiring urgent adjustment.
“Subsidy removal, like I said earlier on, still has a problem. Probe and investigation need to be carried out so that we will know in the right direction whether what we are doing, we are doing it well,” he said.
Dr. Ado-Iliyasu also advocated an all-inclusive national conversation involving relevant experts and stakeholders, arguing that Nigeria must develop solutions based on the country's peculiar economic realities.
Focus on Petroleum Sector
The FCT Senate candidate called for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, including increased domestic refining capacity and better utilisation of the country’s natural resources.
He argued that Nigeria’s recurring fuel subsidy crisis was closely connected to the country’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products and the failure to fully optimise domestic refining capacity.
Dr. Ado-Iliyasu further proposed that the government reconsider its continued ownership and equity stakes in some commercially oriented enterprises, particularly where greater private-sector participation could unlock additional value.
He said properly structured transactions involving government-owned assets could release capital for investment in critical sectors and strengthen the country’s foreign exchange position.
Naira, Foreign Reserves
Expressing concern over pressure on the naira, Dr. Ado-Iliyasu said Nigeria must pursue policies that would strengthen domestic production, attract investment, increase exports and reduce excessive dependence on imports.
He also argued that the country could significantly increase its foreign reserves by unlocking dormant government assets and improving the management of its economic resources.
According to him, building stronger reserves would improve Nigeria’s bargaining position in international markets and help restore confidence in the naira.
He stressed, however, that any disposal or restructuring of government assets must be transparent and properly safeguarded to prevent the undervaluation or misuse of public resources.
NDC Targets APC in 2027
On the 2027 elections, Dr. Ado-Iliyasu expressed confidence that the NDC would provide Nigerians with a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He said the party would campaign on service, accountability, justice, equity and people-centred governance while seeking to address the economic challenges confronting Nigerians.
“By the special grace of God, the NDC coalition will dethrone the APC government in 2027 and enthrone a New Nigeria that works for all,” he declared.
Dr. Ado-Iliyasu maintained that economic reforms should ultimately be judged by their impact on ordinary citizens, stressing that Nigerians need an economy that provides jobs, affordable food, stable energy, stronger purchasing power and improved living conditions.
He said Nigeria has the resources and human capital required to achieve sustainable development, but urged the government to pursue policies that promote accountability, productive investment and responsible management of national assets.
