President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
The endorsement came after a high-level meeting between the President and the party’s Governance Advisory Council (GAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Hamzat revealed that the delegation—led by GAC Chairman Tajudeen Olusi—formally presented him to the President, who approved both his candidacy and the council’s decision.
“These are respected leaders with deep experience. I’m honored they brought me to meet Mr. President, who has now given his blessing to both me and the GAC’s position,” Hamzat said.
On his readiness for the race, Hamzat acknowledged the enormity of the task but expressed confidence in his background and experience.
“No one is ever completely ready for such a big responsibility—it’s an audacious assignment.
“But I bring experience. Serving as Deputy Governor under Babajide Sanwo-Olu has taught me a great deal.
“I understand the system and how governance works,” he said.
Using a metaphor, he added: “If you want to cook for people, you must understand the kitchen.
“With God’s grace and the backing of our leaders, I have no fear.”
Preceding events
Earlier in the week, Governor Sanwo-Olu publicly named Hamzat as his preferred successor.
The GAC subsequently reinforced that stance by unanimously adopting him as its consensus candidate after a meeting at Lagos House, Marina.
The council also pledged support by purchasing his ₦50 million nomination form.
Responding to criticism from other aspirants, including APC chieftain Samuel Ajose, Olusi defended the consensus process.
“In a democracy, people can express their views. But politics involves consultation and agreement.
“We deliberate and decide collectively. Individual opinions cannot override that process,” he said.
The delegation to the Presidential Villa included Governor Sanwo-Olu and other senior figures in the Lagos APC, underscoring the party’s unified backing for Hamzat’s candidacy.
