Kwankwasiyya diaspora coordinator emerges NDC candidate for Gwale federal constituency

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has selected Muhammad Hamisu, a cybersecurity expert and youth mobiliser, as its candidate for the Gwale Federal Constituency seat in Kano State ahead of the next general election.

Hamisu emerged as the party’s flagbearer through a consensus arrangement following the completion of the party’s nomination process, positioning him to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives.

His nomination is expected to add a new dimension to the contest in the constituency, with party supporters citing his background in technology, youth engagement and grassroots mobilisation as key assets.

Currently serving as Global Coordinator of Kwankwasiyya Diaspora, Hamisu oversees the movement’s mobilisation activities across several countries and has played a prominent role in expanding its international network.

Party members and supporters described his emergence as a reflection of growing demand for younger political leaders with professional expertise and grassroots connections.

Hamisu built his political profile through active participation in student and community mobilisation activities during his university years. Over time, he became one of the leading youth organisers within the Kwankwasiyya Movement, contributing to efforts aimed at broadening its support base among young Nigerians at home and abroad.

Political observers noted that his role in mobilising youths and coordinating diaspora activities helped strengthen the movement’s presence beyond Nigeria, making him a familiar figure among its supporters.

Speaking after securing the party’s ticket, Hamisu pledged to provide effective representation for the people of Gwale Federal Constituency if elected.

He said his legislative priorities would focus on improving education, creating opportunities for young people, promoting economic development, supporting digital innovation and enhancing the welfare of constituents.

“Our constituency deserves representation that listens, engages and delivers tangible results. I am committed to serving the people of Gwale with dedication, integrity and accountability,” he said.

Analysts believe his background in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, combined with experience gained in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, could bring a technology-driven perspective to legislative debates and policy formulation.

They also expressed optimism that his involvement in community advocacy and youth engagement would strengthen his ability to articulate the needs and aspirations of constituents.

A native of Gwale Local Government Area, Hamisu attended BUK Staff School for his primary education and later studied at Dawakin Kudu Science College. He subsequently obtained a degree in Computer Engineering from Bayero University Kano.

After graduation, he worked with Kano Electricity Distribution Company before relocating to the United Kingdom on scholarship, where he earned a Master’s degree in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics and later completed a PhD in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence.

While in the United Kingdom, he played a significant role in establishing and expanding the Kwankwasiyya Movement’s presence in the diaspora, beginning with the UK chapter before rising to become its global coordinator.

Upon returning to Nigeria, he became more actively involved in political and community mobilisation activities.

In the 2023 general elections, Hamisu sought to contest for the Gwale Federal Constituency seat but later withdrew his ambition in support of the party’s eventual candidate, citing the need to preserve party unity.

Supporters said his loyalty to the movement, commitment to youth empowerment and longstanding grassroots engagement have enhanced his appeal among party faithful and constituents.

At 38, Hamisu is regarded by supporters as part of a new generation of political leaders seeking to leverage professional expertise, technology and grassroots participation to advance governance and development.