Awori leaders endorse Tinubu, Jim-Kamal rolls out Lagos development Agenda, unveils deputy

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

A coalition of Lagos indigenous groups under the aegis of the Coalition of Lagos State Indigenous Groups (COLSIG) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, describing his administration’s reforms as bold measures capable of repositioning Nigeria for long-term growth.

The endorsement took place on Thursday at Onikan Stadium, Lagos, where Awori sons and daughters, religious leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and other prominent Lagos indigenes gathered in solidarity with the President.

Speaking at the event, a Lagos State governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olokun Lanre Jim-Kamal, said the gathering was aimed at demonstrating total support for Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 polls by the indigenous Lagosians.

According to him, Lagos indigenes had learnt from the political experience of the 2023 elections and were determined to mobilise early to ensure overwhelming support for Tinubu in the next election cycle.

“We are here to openly identify with our son, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and begin early mobilisation for his second term. What happened in 2023 was a wake-up call for us. This time, we are determined to organise better and deliver massive votes,” Jim-Kamal said.

Beyond the endorsement, Jim-Kamal used the occasion to outline his governorship vision for Lagos, promising major reforms in infrastructure, transportation, education, agriculture, and family development if elected governor.

He pledged to prioritise road construction across Lagos with durable alternatives where conventional asphalt roads fail, while also proposing a mass transit system with high-capacity buses to improve urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion.

“When we come on board, Lagos roads will become more accessible. We will deploy stronger road infrastructure and introduce mass transit buses capable of moving hundreds of passengers comfortably. Once transportation is properly organised, many residents, including elites, will willingly leave their cars at home,” he said.

On education, the APC aspirant promised grassroots reforms targeted at improving educational access and outcomes, particularly among Awori communities often described as educationally disadvantaged.

He also unveiled plans to promote mechanised agriculture and fishing across Awori-dominated areas, including Ikorodu, Surulere, Lagos Island, Badagry, and other parts of the state with arable land.

According to him, strategic investment in rice cultivation, fisheries, and land regeneration could reduce Lagos’ dependence on external food supply sources.

Drawing from international experience, Jim-Kamal said Lagos could replicate successful mechanised farming models seen in countries like Norway.

In a major political announcement, Jim-Kamal unveiled renowned community leader, Chief Mrs Abiola Okòyá, as his running mate, saying the decision was in compliance with the new electoral law and reflective of his commitment to inclusive governance.

He described Okòyá as a seasoned grassroots mobiliser whose experience in youth empowerment, scholarships, and rural development would strengthen his administration’s social intervention agenda.

“With Chief Mrs Abiola Okòyá as deputy governor, Lagos will witness accelerated rural development, stronger youth empowerment programmes, and expanded scholarship opportunities,” he stated.

Jim-Kamal also pledged to prioritise family values and social reorientation, arguing that rebuilding the family institution remains critical to restoring societal order.

“Family is the foundation of every healthy society. We must rebuild family values by supporting mothers, fathers, and young people to create a more morally stable society,” he added.

Earlier, COLSIG Convener, Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, said Tinubu’s emergence as President marked a historic milestone for Lagos indigenes, noting that for the first time, a Lagos son occupies the nation’s highest political office.

“In the history of Nigeria, an indigene of Lagos State is occupying the highest office in the land. This is a moment for unity and support. Tinubu has made enormous sacrifices for democracy and deserves our collective backing,” Onitiri said.

He urged Lagos indigenes to close ranks, deepen grassroots mobilisation, and work towards Tinubu’s victory in the next presidential election.

Muslims and Christian clerics at the endorsement

Prayers were offered by Christian clerics, Muslim leaders, and traditional rulers of Awori descent, while dignitaries including former commissioners, monarchs, and political leaders took turns to commend Tinubu’s democratic credentials and leadership journey.