10 things to know about Obi-Kwankwaso campaign DG Abdulkarim

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has appointed Alhaji Ibrahim Hussain Abdulkarim as the Director-General of the campaign for the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, placing an ICT strategist, entrepreneur and political strategist at the helm of its campaign structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The appointment is part of the party’s campaign arrangements for the presidential ticket featuring Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The campaign list was released on Sunday evening.

Abdulkarim’s background in technology, business development, political strategy and community engagement offers insight into the professional experience he brings to the campaign.

Here are 10 things to know about Abdulkarim, popularly known as Mallam Ziter or Ziter001.

1. He was born in Sokoto State

Abdulkarim was born on October 14, 1976, in Sokoto State, to the family of Alhaji Hussain Abdulkarim. His early upbringing and education in northern Nigeria preceded a career spanning technology, business, politics and development.

1. He studied Geography at Bayero University

He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from Bayero University, Kano. His academic background helped lay the foundation for his work in Geographic Information Systems, spatial data management and technology-driven development solutions.

1. He is an ICT strategist and entrepreneur

Abdulkarim is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of EasyGIS Nigeria Limited, a technology company that provides Geographic Information Systems, data management, information systems and business process improvement solutions.

His professional interests span technology, communication, business development and institutional innovation.

1. He has experience in political strategy

Beyond his technology and business interests, Abdulkarim has experience in political strategy and public-sector engagement. His appointment as Director-General of the Obi-Kwankwaso campaign places him in a position to contribute to the coordination and strategic direction of the NDC’s campaign activities.

1. He has worked on projects across several sectors

Abdulkarim has designed, coordinated and implemented technology-based projects addressing challenges in public administration, security, agriculture, land administration, revenue generation, membership management and project monitoring.

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These engagements reflect his experience in applying digital tools to institutional and developmental challenges.

1. He was involved in a nationwide vehicle-mapping project

One of his notable projects was the AMDON System Integration Project, which mapped more than 1,500 dealerships and over 100,000 vehicles across 28 states.

The project demonstrates his experience in data management and the use of technology to organise information across multiple locations.

1. He has contributed to public-sector technology projects

His portfolio includes the Katsina Motor Vehicle Administration Software, the Zamfara Online Scientific Fertiliser and Seeds Distribution System, and a crime reporting and monitoring system for the Nigerian Police.

Other projects include EDU-GIS, the JIBWIS Live Community Membership System and the Adamawa Emirate Council Traditional Council Closed User Group.

1. He served on a Nasarawa State government advisory committee

Between 2019 and 2021, Abdulkarim served as chairman of the Advisory Committee on Efficient Land Administration, Urban Planning and Development, and Improving Revenue Generation and Collection in the Nasarawa State Ministry of Land and Urban Development.

The role exposed him to policy and administrative issues involving land management, urban development and public revenue.

1. He is involved in youth empowerment and community development

Abdulkarim has supported initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for young Nigerians through employment, entrepreneurship, skills development and business support.

His activities have included connecting and supporting young people in Kaduna State and other parts of the country, with an emphasis on enterprise development, leadership and community participation.

1. He combines technology, business and development experience

Abdulkarim’s professional profile spans the public, private, political, religious and development sectors. He is also a philanthropist and advocate for good governance, youth empowerment and community development.

His appointment as campaign Director-General brings these different areas of experience into the NDC’s effort to organise and advance the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential campaign.