Lagos: Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the Lagos State Deputy Governor and 2027 APC Governorship candidate in the state, stated on Sunday that many politicians aspiring to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027 lack the vision required to transform Nigeria. Hamzat made these remarks while addressing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen’s Forum during their visit to key infrastructure projects in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, members of the forum visited the deputy governor at his residence in Ikoyi. Hamzat decried the criticism of Tinubu by some presidential candidates, emphasizing, “Many who want to lead do not have vision. We are thankful that we have visionary leaders. Many could not see what Asiwaju Tinubu saw years ago.”
Hamzat described President Tinubu as an inclusive leader who encourages innovation and welcomes superior ideas, irrespective of their source. He noted, “Nobody is too small before the President. If your idea is superior, it overrides that of the President. He allows ideas to germinate.”
The deputy governor highlighted Tinubu’s decision to establish certain agencies as a reflection of his understanding that specialized institutions could deliver better results than conventional ministries. He cited landmark projects such as rail lines, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Eko Atlantic City, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, and the Badagry-Sokoto Highway as products of Tinubu’s foresight and vision.
Hamzat emphasized that building these projects aims not just to move people but to industrialize the country and connect the populace. He stated that improved transport and infrastructure connectivity would promote commerce, strengthen national integration, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
He further mentioned that Tinubu’s ability to attract local and foreign investors was a direct result of his visionary leadership and long-term development strategy. Hamzat urged APC state chairmen to work closely with their governors due to their strategic position within the party structure, stressing the importance of party building.
Hamzat also called on elected office holders to appreciate the significance of political parties and learn from successful democracies worldwide. He reminded leaders at all levels of government to remain accountable, stating that they would ultimately account for their stewardship before God.
He noted that Nigeria is endowed with intelligent and talented people but continues to suffer setbacks because citizens often allow minor differences to divide them. According to him, leadership should be driven by service, and a person’s true worth is best appreciated through commitment to the welfare of the people.
Responding on behalf of the forum, Chief Moses Adeyemo, the Oyo State APC Chairman, appreciated the warm reception and described Lagos as a state of distinction for emulation. The Chairman of the APC in Kaduna State, Mr Isaac Sankey, expressed that the party’s state chairmen were impressed by the development strides recorded in Lagos under Tinubu’s leadership as the former governor. Sankey stated that the visit allowed the delegation to witness projects that reflected Tinubu’s vision, adding that the foundation laid during his tenure continues to drive Lagos’ development.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the APC in Akwa Ibom, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, described Lagos as a model for other states, attributing its remarkable transformation to purposeful and visionary leadership. “The way and manner you project the ideals of this state is huge, and we are proud of it. Lagos is a model to other states. We are in no doubt whatsoever that you will follow the great steps laid by the President,” Ntukekpo said.
Earlier, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the chairman of the forum and Lagos State APC Chairman, stated that his colleagues were in Lagos for a three-day visit to strategize ahead of the 2027 general elections.