₦airaland Forum

LAGOS APC GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARIES

Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu @jidesanwoolu and his Wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu @JokeSanwoolu today participated in the Lagos APC Governorship Primaries held today at their ward, Ward E3, Eiyekole, St Stephen School, Adeniji… pic.twitter.com/AKVIkcIYOJ

— Jubril A. Gawat (@Mr_JAGs) May 21, 2026

The South West Development Commission on Thursday secured a provisional rail operating and track access licence from the Nigerian Railway Corporation, paving the way for SWDC-led passenger and freight rail services across existing rail corridors in the South-West.

The development marks a major step towards improving regional connectivity and driving economic transformation across the region.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of SWDC, Charles Akinola, disclosed this in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, while addressing journalists. He described the development as a significant transition from planning to implementation.

Akinola explained that the licence was not for the construction of new rail lines, but for operating passenger and freight services on existing rail corridors linking communities, businesses, industrial hubs, and economic centres across the South-West.

He said, “The license authorized the commission to operate on both narrow and standard gauge rail networks and supports the launch of the South-West Rail, Agro-Industrial & Logistics Platform, a regional initiative aimed at improving logistics competitiveness, unlocking agro-industrial growth, strengthening mobility, and accelerating economic development across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States.

“This license is not just a document. It is the green light to rebuild the Southwest’s economic spine on rail. We are moving from plans to tracks, from talk to trains. Our partnership with the NRC will put freight on rails, people on trains, and opportunity back into the hands of businesses and communities across the South West.”

The SWDC boss explained that the SW-RAIL Platform was being developed as a rail-anchored economic corridor integrating freight systems, agro-logistics, industrial parks, inland logistics hubs, cold-chain infrastructure, port connectivity, passenger mobility systems and transit-oriented developments.

According to him, the South-West remains Nigeria’s largest economic bloc but still faces serious logistics bottlenecks, rising freight costs, congestion, and supply chain inefficiencies.

“The South-West has enormous economic potential, but transportation inefficiencies continue to increase the cost of doing business. Rail provides an opportunity to address these challenges in a more integrated, scalable, and sustainable way,” he said.

Akinola stated that the initiative was expected to reduce logistics costs, improve freight efficiency, strengthen agricultural market access, boost export competitiveness, expand industrial activities, improve passenger mobility, and create jobs across several sectors.

He said, “By operating directly on NRC corridors, the SWDC aims to provide manufacturers, farmers, exporters, FMCG companies, and logistics operators with a more reliable alternative to road haulage, easing pressure on major highways and reducing delays in the movement of goods and people.

“The improved rail integration will strengthen connectivity between Apapa and Tin Can ports and key industrial, agricultural, and commercial hubs across the Southwest.

“Agricultural produce and manufactured goods will move more efficiently between production centers, markets, warehouses, and export terminals, while corridor-based economic zones are expected to stimulate investment, warehousing, agro-processing, and SME growth.”

Akinola noted that the implementation model would be partnership-driven and open to collaboration with state governments, private investors, logistics operators, and international infrastructure partners.

He added that the rail initiative was another flagship regional transformation programme of the SWDC following the launch of TransComs, a cluster-based development model designed to transform rural communities into integrated economic hubs through agriculture, housing, enterprise development, logistics and youth employment.

“Together, both initiatives form part of the commission’s broader vision of building a more connected, productive, and economically integrated South-West region under a One Bloc Economy framework,” he stated.

Lagos is daring to dream big. What you’re seeing here is the ongoing construction of Phase 2 of the Lagos Blue Line mass transit rail project. Following the successful launch and operation of Phase 1 running from Mile 2 to Marina for over two years work on the next phase is… pic.twitter.com/C4twgPigog

— Just Ozed (@Just_Ozed) May 12, 2026

The Lagos Blue Line Phase 2 is rising fast

From Okokomaiko to LASU, Volkswagen, Trade Fair, Alakija, Festac, and down to Mile 2 visible progress is now unfolding across the entire 14km corridor.

From elevated rail sections to roadbed construction, work is actively ongoing… pic.twitter.com/6qvJltgifl

— Just Ozed (@Just_Ozed) May 13, 2026

Train station structures are steadily rising along the Lagos Blue Line Phase 2 corridor as work continues toward expanding the metro rail network from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko. Another visible step toward a more connected Lagos. pic.twitter.com/UicswljDTv

— Just Ozed (@Just_Ozed) May 14, 2026

Construction on the Maza Maza Bridge for the ongoing Lagos Blue Line Metro Rail Phase 2.

This is part of the broader effort to complete the full 14 kilometre metro rail corridor stretching from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, with multiple train stations. pic.twitter.com/dI1CjzrxD6

— UPDATEBOYZ  (@Updateboyx) May 14, 2026

MR BABAJIDE SANWO-OLU, ACS ⭐

Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu @jidesanwoolu today was formally inducted as an Associate of the prestigious Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) at Lagos House Marina.

The Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) is a… pic.twitter.com/0xGnty389m

— Jubril A. Gawat (@Mr_JAGs) April 28, 2026

As the conversation around representation in Abeokuta South Federal Constituency gathers momentum, this moment demands not sentiment, but sober reflection. Elections should be a referendum on service, performance and credibility. On that score, Hon. Afolabi Moruf Afuape has earned not only the right to seek reelection, but the overwhelming support of party faithful and constituents who desire continuity in purposeful representation. His tenure has been defined by visible impact, responsive leadership and uncommon commitment to the welfare of the people—qualities too valuable to abandon at a critical moment.

Hon. Afuape has demonstrated a high sense of duty through qualitative and people-focused representation, marked by facilitation of landmark projects that speak louder than political rhetoric. From the reconstruction of the Olokuta–Wole Soyinka Train Station Road to construction of classrooms and provision of learning materials across wards, from transformers and boreholes to numerous other grassroots interventions, his footprint is visible across the constituency. Beyond infrastructure, he has distinguished himself in empowerment. As one of the very few Members representing Abeokuta South—aside the Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole—to execute two mega empowerment programmes of such scale, empowering over 1,000 party members with tricycles, motorcycles, freezers, grinding machines, generators, POS machines and startup support, Hon. Afuape has demonstrated that representation must improve livelihoods, not merely occupy headlines.

Even more remarkable is his investment in human capital and youth advancement. At a time many politicians merely speak of youth development, Hon. Afuape trained over 700 youth leaders and young people in solar power installation and equipped them with toolkits, opening pathways to entrepreneurship and sustainable income. Over 800 constituents also benefitted from direct financial support ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000.

These are not symbolic gestures; they are interventions that touch lives. And uniquely, in the annals of the constituency, Hon. Afuape stands out for institutionalizing constituency stakeholder and town hall meetings—a feedback mechanism that makes representation participatory, accountable and people-driven. This is not the conduct of a distant lawmaker; it is the hallmark of a representative who listens.

At the National Assembly, he has refused to be a bench warmer. While some seek office for status, Hon. Afuape has approached legislative responsibility with seriousness and purpose. His legislative interventions, including bills on community policing to address evolving security threats and farm settlement development to tackle food insecurity, strengthen agricultural value chains and create jobs, reveal a lawmaker thinking beyond constituency projects to national solutions. This combination of grassroots delivery and legislative productivity is rare. It is the kind of representation constituencies pray for, not the kind they casually discard.

But this conversation is bigger than one man; it is also about the identity and political character of Abeokuta South. This is not an ordinary local government. It is a strategic political nerve centre whose sons and daughters currently occupy some of the highest offices in the land: Mr. Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy; Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy; and Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Trade and Investment. A local government that has produced such intellectual and public service heavyweights cannot afford to lower its standards by projecting just anybody for federal representation. Abeokuta South carries a political heritage too weighty to be entrusted to individuals of questionable character or uncertain means.

Indeed, the leadership of APC in Abeokuta South must see this as a moral and political responsibility. Egbaland is renowned for honour, dignity, integrity and enlightened leadership. These values must not be compromised by desperation or the promotion of persons whose public conduct may bring shame and disrepute to the land and people of Egba across the world. Politics must never become a gateway for characters who cannot withstand scrutiny. At a time when public trust in leadership is fragile, the party must reward tested service, proven character and measurable performance—not gamble with unverified ambition.

The choice before Abeokuta South therefore is therefore clear: sustain a representative with visible achievements, legislative substance and grassroots connection, or risk substituting performance with uncertainty. Hon. Afolabi Moruf Afuape has justified continuity through service. This is not merely a campaign for reelection; it is a call to defend competence, preserve dignity and deepen progress.

For party stakeholders, constituents and all who care about the future of Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, particularly our party, APC, the imperative is simple: stand with performance, stand with character, stand with Hon. Afolabi Moruf Afuape.

Femi Adeleye writes from Oke-Apata, Itoko, Abeokuta.

Today, I am honoured by the endorsement of my Governor, my brother and my friend, HE Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

His trust means a great deal to me. We’ve worked side by side in the service of Lagos State, and I don’t take this vote of confidence lightly.

I remain committed to building on the progress we’ve made together, and look forward to serving Lagosians with integrity, focus and a clear sense of purpose.

Mynd44:
It is Lanrelagboi that will come and respond to you

The political landscape of Ogun State shifted decisively on April 13, 2026, when Senator Olamilekan Adeola, affectionately known as YAYI, emerged as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for governor. This was more than a routine political development but a culmination of years of calculated strategy, consolidation at the grassroots level, and an ability to navigate complex political currents, from the House of Assembly to the Senate and now to the threshold of Governor.

The consensus agreement itself is significant. In a political culture often defined by factional struggles, it reflects a rare alignment of interests and a level of trust that Adeola has earned beyond divisions. This ability to unify will be even more important in governing a state as politically and economically complex as Ogun, and he should follow the example of the current governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who oversaw a selection without rancor.

But with this moment comes a crucial decision that may quietly shape his long-term legacy as he prepares for the election season that will usher him as governor. The decision is who will succeed him in the Senate.
It’s not simply a matter of filling a vacancy, but of determining the quality of representation Ogun West will have at the federal level and, by extension, the influence, resources, and voice the district will have in Abuja. The easiest path would be to appoint an ally that seems safe, predictable, and firmly within his political orbit. That instinct, though common, would be shortsighted.

Strong political structures are not built by accumulating power. They are built by distributing it wisely. And no one does this better than Senator Adeola’s mentor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

If Adeola intends to follow the governing philosophy often associated with enduring political leadership. a philosophy rooted in inclusion, talent development, and long-term thinking, then this Senate decision must reflect those principles.

In this context, several names have been considered to succeed him, but three stand out.

Honourable Gboyega Nasir Isiaka brings with him a reputation for consistency. His political trajectory reflects a deep understanding of the local dynamics of West Ogun. He understands the electorate not as an abstract bloc, but as a living constituency with constantly evolving needs. In the Senate, this foundation could translate into a representation that remains closely tied to local realities. However, the fact that
he is from a double minority will hinder his acceptance in the most ethnically diverse district of Ogun State. Honourable Olusegun Bolanle Gbeleyi presents perhaps the most compelling case when analysed from the perspective of long-term strategic value. An experienced legislator with strong ties to the grassroots, Gbeleyi combines legislative experience with a clear understanding of governance priorities. His time in the Ogun State Legislative Assembly demonstrated a focus on practical development, particularly in infrastructure and youth engagement. He also brings a balance to the gubernatorial ticket that other prominent candidates lack in terms of broad acceptance, loyalty, and acceptance by all groups within the Ogun State APC.

Honourable Adekunle Akinlade (Triple A) offers a different kind of political weight. With his vast experience and strong name recognition in Ogun politics, Akinlade represents a tried-and-tested figure with administrative experience and electoral credibility. His political resilience and ability to remain relevant amid shifting alignments demonstrate a certain durability. He would bring visibility, experience, and a ready-made political structure to the role. But his loyalty to the party’s cause remains suspect given his political history.

[b]Among these three thus, Gbeleyi stands out in my opinion. Being an Awori, his choice will signal that Senator Adeola understands the grassroot and its yearning, given that his local government gave the biggest amount of vote to him and President Tinubu in the last election in the zone.[/b] He also represents the generational transition that Ogun politics desperately needs, that is someone young enough to bring energy and innovation, yet experienced enough to navigate the complex corridors of power in Abuja. His legislative experience means he would get to work immediately, without needing a learning period to understand the mechanisms of lawmaking. Placing him in this role would signal something deeper than a routine endorsement. It would show a willingness to prioritize competence and balance over absolute control and ability over convenience.

As Adeola prepares for the government, this decision will be closely watched. Not only by party members, but by a wider public, increasingly attentive to how power is allocated and maintained.
Leadership, at its highest level, is not just about winning positions. It's about shaping what comes next.
The people of Ogun State are watching. The APC faithful are watching. And history is watching.
May the wishes of the people prevail.

Dare Adeleke,
Oke Oyinbo,
Ayetoro, Ogun State

Rt. Hon. Otunba Olusegun Bolanle Gbeleyi (OBG), a former Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, has officially declared his bid for the Ogun West Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

During a media parley organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun West Independent Chapel in Ota, Gbeleyi unveiled a comprehensive seven-point manifesto titled “Sustaining the Gains, Raising the Bar Higher.” The veteran politician and administrator emphasized that his return to the elective arena is fueled by a desire to leverage his international influence and legislative experience to transform the district.

A Global Vision for Local Impact
​Highlighting his deep-rooted connections within the international community, particularly the United Kingdom, Gbeleyi pledged to attract foreign direct investment to the region. He noted that while he has contributed significantly to national efforts in the past—including Nigeria’s return to the Commonwealth and debt relief initiatives under former President Olusegun Obasanjo—he has only “tapped a fraction” of his global network.

​”Our commitment is to provide accessible and responsive leadership that listens to the people and delivers meaningful results,” Gbeleyi stated, promising an open-door policy that begins with a 100-day direct engagement tour across all local governments in the district.

The 7-Point Agenda: “Raising the Bar”
​Gbeleyi’s roadmap for Ogun West focuses on seven critical pillars designed to bridge the gap between grassroots needs and national policy:

Agriculture: Establishing the Ogun West Agriculture Development Initiative; mechanization and agro-processing hubs

Education: Scholarships, bursaries, and digital skills development building on his tenure at the Digital Bridge Institute.

Infrastructure: Rehabilitation of major roads and a comprehensive “water reform agenda” to replace boreholes with revived waterworks.

Investment: Leveraging Ogun West’s strategic border location to attract industries and foreign capital.

Youth Empowerment: Creation of the Ogun West Youth Enterprise Fund for startups and tech-driven job placement.

Social Welfare: Microcredit and cooperative financing for women, artisans, and traders.

Security: Enhanced border control measures and collaborative security frameworks.

Experience as a CatalystAddressing questions regarding his hiatus from elective politics, Gbeleyi asserted that his recent roles—including serving as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Digital Bridge Institute (2021–2025) and as a consultant on federal power projects—have only sharpened his competence.

​He argued that his blend of legislative history and administrative exposure makes him uniquely qualified to navigate the complexities of the Red Chamber. Gbeleyi emphasized that his priority is to be remembered as a “people-focused legislator” who shifted the district’s reliance from temporary fixes to sustainable, institutional growth.

​As the race for 2027 begins to take shape, Gbeleyi’s entry introduces a heavyweight contender into the Ogun West political landscape, anchoring his campaign on a promise of impactful representation and inclusive development.

The Ojota–Opebi Link Bridge is designed to ease movement across one of Lagos’ busiest corridors. For years, areas like Ojota, Maryland, Opebi and Allen have struggled with heavy traffic, largely because there was no direct connection between them.

Stretching about 5.04 km, this… https://t.co/2vLOyduHaL pic.twitter.com/e8z7zqP7ZI

— Babajide Sanwo-Olu (@jidesanwoolu) April 6, 2026

TOLU SCHOOLS COMPLEX, AJEGUNLE

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr @jidesanwoolu today paid an Inspection Tour of the Tolu Schools Complex, Ajegunle, Mr Governor interacted with the excited students and told them that their school complex is one of the biggest school complex in… pic.twitter.com/531CVSFOLY

— Jubril A. Gawat (@Mr_JAGs) April 1, 2026

Today, I visited the newly constructed Tolu Schools Complex to assess progress ahead of its commissioning.

This complex brings together 36 schools across primary, junior, and senior secondary levels, spread over 11.7 hectares. It is set to serve over 20,000 students and stands as the largest school community in Africa, with well-equipped classrooms, football fields, basketball courts and other modern facilities.

Education remains central to our vision for Lagos and we will continue to ensure every child has access to a quality learning environment.

I appreciate the warm reception from residents and the students I met. Your support encourages us to keep going and we remain committed to serving you.

Following a whistleblower complaint, I directed the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office team to visit the Access Bank Plc @myaccessbank building at Oniru, Victoria Island, where it was discovered that the wastewater treatment plant at the facility was non-functional,… pic.twitter.com/g2O5C3oG5m

— Tokunbo Wahab (@tokunbo_wahab) April 1, 2026

Today, I attended the All Progressives Congress (APC) Southwest Zonal Congress at Onikan Stadium, Lagos.

We connected with party members across the region and reaffirmed our shared commitment to progress and stability.

Senator Solomon Adeola

Today, I attended the APC Southwest Zonal Meeting, where key decisions were made to reposition the party and support the reforms under President @officialABAT GCFR’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The meeting featured prominent figures and distinguished dignitaries across south-west.

I joined leaders and members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), earlier today at the Southwest Zonal Congress held at Onikan Stadium.

It was an important political gathering that brought together key stakeholders from across the Southwest region as we continue to strengthen our unity, deepen our structures, and renew our shared commitment to progress and good governance.

Together, we remain focused, united, and ready for the tasks ahead.

3,188 delegates have voted Chief Isaac Kekemeke as SW Zonal Chairman at the SW congress holding today at Onikan Stadium (Mobolaji Johnson Arena).

- He was the pioneer APC Chairman in Ondo State

- Minority Leader in the Ondo State House of Assembly

- He was SSG, Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice, and Commissioner for Works in Ondo State.

- At the federal level, he was the pioneer Chairman of @Neconigeria and now chairs the board of @NIPOSTNG

IYKYK ✅

Governor of Lagos State, Mr @jidesanwoolu today at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Southwest Zonal Congress at Onikan Stadium, Lagos 📍 📍 #APCSouthWestZonalCongress #RenewedHope @OfficialAPCNg pic.twitter.com/0L2i3FKTCM

— Jubril A. Gawat (@Mr_JAGs) March 25, 2026

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Arrives at the 2026 APC South West Zonal Congress..

📍Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos Island

Follow us to stay connected @LagosJunction pic.twitter.com/mPQMb52UDA

— Lagos Junction (@LagosJunction) March 25, 2026

2026 All Progressive Congress (APC) South West Zonal Congress..

📍Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos Island

Follow us to stay connected @LagosJunction pic.twitter.com/3TXgQaHl4T

— Lagos Junction (@LagosJunction) March 25, 2026

Mynd44:
He did more in Lagos west actually.

Why is this thing hurting you? Weird that you are going into overdrive over this simple matter.

As the OP has said, bring 5 senators who can match this.

Lets scrutinize the others too. You might learn a thing or two

helinues:
You see oo, is this how the Lagos boys want to convince Ogun people about Yayi who represented Lagos for over 2 decades but suddenly remember about Ogun state because his chance in becoming Lagos state governor is not just there.

Ogun state is the dumping site, what an insult on the people of the state. Yayi knew he had ambition to govern Ogun state yet represented Lagos state for that so long

Why did you lie about those road projects as Yayi's projects? That was deliberate and mischievous.

helinues:
You see oo, is this how the Lagos boys want to convince Ogun people about Yayi who represented Lagos for over 2 decades but suddenly remember about Ogun state because his chance in becoming Lagos state is not just there.

Ogun state is the dumping site, what an insult on the people of the state. Yayi knew he had ambition to govern Ogun state yet represented Lagos state for that so long

Why did you lie about those road projects as Yayi's projects? That was deliberate and mischievous.

helinues:
No disrespecting, this is disgracing. Senators don't build roads, they only oversight FG projects

How are those projects now Yayi's projects

Una want to bobo Ogun people about Yayi, you guys could have come up with something better

The Fully Completed and about-to-be-Commissioned Lagos State Multi-Agency Complex, Alausa Ikeja.

- This Project sits on a 2.01 Hectares of Land

- It is a multi-story building consisting of 3 number of blocks (A, B and C).

- Block B consists of 8 (eight) floors, Block A and C consists of 5 (five) floors each.

- The 3 (three) blocks (A, B & C) have a Penthouse on the last floor.

- The first two floors of each block are earmarked for parking while the upper floors are meant for office accommodation.

- The Pent-Houses are exclusively for conferencing

Legacy of Governor @jidesanwoolu ✅

Presidential Commissioning expected 👍🏼👍🏼

The Multi-Agency Complex is a multi-storey office development designed to centralise operations of critical state agencies, thereby reducing congestion in the old Secretariat campus.

The complex, situated in Alausa Central Business District, is designed to offer comfort for civil servants and enhance administrative efficiency.

The project houses office spaces, relaxation facilities, multi-level car park with capacity for over 600 vehicles, and advanced safety system.

Legacy of Gov. @jidesanwoolu

The General Manager of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), Prince Dr. Ifalade Oyekan, FISN has declared that Lagos State is fully prepared for the establishment of State Police, affirming that the state’s existing security framework is well-positioned for the transition.

Speaking with journalists, Prince Oyekan noted that the Agency, widely regarded as a pioneer of community policing in Nigeria, is strategically structured to evolve into a state security apparatus once the legal framework for State Police is enacted. He explained that the LNSA has undergone significant restructuring and re-engineering to align with modern safety and security demands, adopting a proactive, technology backed and intelligence-driven model across the state.

“We are not designed to merely react to incidents,” he stated. “Our Corps Officers are trained to anticipate, prevent, and mitigate security threats before they occur.”

Prince Oyekan, who was recently reappointed for a second five-year term by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to strengthening grassroots security architecture. He emphasized that under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, the Agency and its Corps arm will continue to evolve into a modern, efficient, and responsive safety institution capable of advancing the vision of a safer Lagos.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu