The Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, has officially welcomed Hajja Bintu Konto as his vice-presidential running mate, describing her selection as a merit-based decision aimed at advancing the party’s “Nigerians First” agenda.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, Okereke said the party’s leadership ratified Konto’s nomination after considering what he described as the best interests of Nigeria and its citizens.
He said the decision reflected the Labour Party’s commitment to competence, integrity, inclusion, social justice, and transformational leadership, stressing that Konto’s professional background in nursing, public health, humanitarian service, and development made her exceptionally qualified for the role.
According to Okereke, the choice of the vice-presidential candidate was based on competence rather than gender, adding that capable women should naturally occupy positions of national leadership when merit is allowed to prevail.
“Our campaign is built on a simple but profound philosophy: Nigerians First,” he said, adding that leadership decisions should be guided by competence, character, capacity, and the ability to deliver measurable results rather than ethnicity, religion, patronage, or gender.
The Labour Party flag bearer argued that greater participation of women in governance is essential for sustainable national development, noting that countries that fully harness the leadership potential of both men and women build stronger institutions and more inclusive democracies.
Okereke described Konto as a compassionate leader with a proven record of service, resilience, and commitment to national development, expressing confidence that she would bring strategic insight and experience to the party’s presidential ticket.
He also expressed appreciation to the Labour Party leadership, including National Leader Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, National Chairman Senator Nenadi Usman, National Secretary Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma, members of the National Working Committee, and party leaders across the federation for their support and confidence.
Reaffirming his campaign message, Okereke pledged that the Labour Party would work to restore public trust, strengthen institutions, expand opportunities, and build a nation where every Nigerian can live in peace, dignity, and prosperity.
The statement concluded with the party’s campaign slogan, “Nigerians First… Believe Again,” as the Labour Party continues preparations for the 2027 presidential election.
