By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has emerged as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) for the 2027 general election. Makinde secured the party’s ticket on Saturday during the APM presidential primary held in Ibadan, Oyo State. Party delegates elected him to lead the APM into the 2027 presidential race. He accepted the nomination and unveiled his plans to rebuild Nigeria’s economy, reform key sectors, and restore public confidence in governance.
Makinde Promises Economic Reforms
In his acceptance speech, Makinde said his ambition stems from a desire to restore hope and rebuild confidence across Nigeria.
He pledged to focus on competence, practical solutions, and effective leadership.
“I stand before you today with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility as I accept the nomination to serve as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement for the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Makinde stressed that his administration would implement reforms that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“I believe that we possess the capacity to rebuild our economy through honesty, discipline and practical reforms. When I speak of practical reforms, I mean reforms that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he added.
Oil and Gas Sector Reform Tops Agenda
The governor outlined plans to reform Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
According to him, Nigerians deserve greater benefits from the country’s natural resources.
“Nigerians must benefit from the fact that we are an oil-producing nation, just as citizens of other resource-producing countries benefit from their natural wealth,” he said.
Makinde also called for major reforms at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
“The NNPC must be reformed into a lean, efficient and commercially driven institution through proper corporate restructuring, stronger partnerships and institutional reforms,” he stated.
Agriculture Identified as Growth Driver
Furthermore, Makinde described agriculture as a critical sector for economic expansion.
He promised policies that would boost agricultural production, processing, storage, and logistics.
He argued that strengthening the agricultural value chain would enhance food security, create jobs, and increase national revenue.
Bala Mohammed Endorses Makinde
Meanwhile, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed endorsed Makinde’s candidacy during the event.
Mohammed spoke through his deputy, Mohammed Jatau.
He described Makinde as a leader capable of moving Nigeria forward.
“We are here on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State to support, endorse and celebrate the emergence of our dear distinguished brother, Oluwaseyi Makinde, as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement,” Jatau said.
APM Chairman Commends Transparent Primary
Also speaking, APM National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle praised the conduct of the primary election.
He described the process as peaceful, transparent, and credible.
Dantalle expressed confidence that the party would remain united ahead of the 2027 general election.
Conclusion
Makinde’s emergence as the APM presidential candidate marks an important step in the party’s preparations for the 2027 election. With promises of economic reforms, oil sector restructuring, and agricultural development, he has outlined a policy agenda aimed at addressing Nigeria’s major challenges.
