By Bashir Bello

Kano — Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has called on Nigerians, particularly students, to prioritize competence, integrity, and capacity over religious or ethnic affiliations when voting.

The National Coordinator of CNG, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, made the appeal during a one-day public lecture organized by the student wing of the Kano State chapter, CNG-SW.

Charanchi urged voters to consider candidates’ track records, integrity, and readiness to work for all Nigerians, warning that votes based on religion or tribe have historically hindered national development.

“My message to Nigerian students is that leadership selection should be based on competency, capacity, capability, and integrity. Students should reject politicians who exploit tribal or religious differences, or thrive on poverty, fear, and ignorance,” he said.

He added that students, as beneficiaries of Nigeria’s democratic struggles, have a responsibility to make informed choices for the nation’s progress.

The CNG coordinator also cautioned students against drug abuse, hate speech, and disunity, emphasizing the importance of fostering national cohesion.

Speaking at the event, Chairman Salisu Muhammad highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping Nigeria’s future leadership. He lamented the dominance of older, less active leaders and called on the youth to reclaim their historic role in national decision-making.

“It has always been my aspiration to mobilize Nigerian youth, raise their political consciousness, and ensure they assume their historic responsibility in national leadership. Only an active, patriotic, and energetic youth can restore Nigeria to its rightful path of progress,” he said.

CNG’s call underscores a broader push to encourage issue-based voting and civic responsibility among Nigeria’s youth ahead of the 2027 elections.