Lagos APC 2027: Jim-Kamal declares for governorship, heads to Abuja for nomination form

…Dismisses endorsement rumours

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olanrewaju Olalekan Jim-Kamal, has formally declared his intention to contest the Lagos State governorship election in 2027, promising inclusive governance, human capital development and massive infrastructure renewal.

Jim-Kamal made the declaration on Saturday at Lagos Travel Inn Hall, Toyin Street, Opebi, Ikeja, before a large gathering of party stalwarts, community leaders, youths and supporters.

He announced that he would proceed to Abuja to purchase the APC nomination form, urging his supporters not to be distracted by what he described as “endorsement propaganda.”

“I will be leaving for Abuja to obtain my form, which you know is ₦50 million. I will obtain it and bring it back for all of us to fill it together” he said, assuring that his ambition remains focused despite political manoeuvrings.

At the event, the aspirant praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a transformative leader whose reforms would ultimately benefit Nigerians. He expressed confidence in the President’s leadership and projected continuity of policies.

Jim-Kamal, who traced his roots to Isheri-Oke in Lagos highlighted his academic and professional background, noting that he began his career as a teacher before venturing into business and politics.

He stated that his political journey dates back to 1988 and includes contesting various elective positions, including the 2023 Lagos governorship election as the only Awori indigene in the race then.

Some of the supporters at the deceleration venue last Saturday

He used the occasion to present elements of his policy direction, anchored on what he described as a people-centred agenda. Key among his proposals are free and compulsory education, technology-driven healthcare services, youth empowerment through financial support and job creation, and monthly stipends for the elderly.

“We are going to ensure all children are in school. Education will be free at all levels. We will also provide automated healthcare services and support our youths with stipend of  ₦100,000 while creating jobs through partnerships with the private sector,” he said.

The aspirant also pledged to address infrastructure challenges, including road development and decongestion of Lagos, while promising to attract foreign investment into the state. He further emphasized plans to boost agriculture, particularly rice production, and strengthen security across Lagos.

On political dynamics within the APC, Jim-Kamal dismissed claims of endorsements for other aspirants, insisting that the party’s primary process would be decisive as promised by the party leadership in the state. He called for unity and adherence to democratic principles ahead of the primaries.

Speaking at the event, a political associate, Hon Aruno Yusuf, described Jim-Kamal as a visionary leader with a strong commitment to human capital development, expressing confidence in his ability to lead Lagos State.

He said, “I have no other endorsement to give except to Jim-Kamal. I urge everyone here and all Lagosians to thank God for having someone like Jim-Kamal.”

Yusuf

He went further to pray for the aspirants, he prayed, “I pray that God Almighty will be with you, protect you, grant you peace of mind and calmness of spirit. By His grace, you will become the Governor of Lagos in 2027.”

Similarly, APC woman leader, Rashidat Yusuf, said his declaration represents a significant moment for the Awori people, urging Lagosians across ethnic divides to support his ambition based on competence and capacity.

L-R: Hon Yusuf; Jim-Kamal; Junaid and Yemi Senbanjo at the Opebi deceleration

The declaration signals the early buildup to the 2027 Lagos governorship race, with Jim-Kamal positioning himself as a contender focused on inclusive growth and grassroots development.