Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has openly declared his readiness to occupy Nigeria’s highest political office, insisting that his professional background and years in public service have adequately prepared him for national leadership.
Speaking confidently while addressing questions on his growing presidential profile, Makinde argued that governing Oyo State has tested his administrative capacity and strengthened his understanding of Nigeria’s complex governance challenges.
Moreover, he maintained that leadership competence should be assessed beyond political sentiment.
“I have managed a state with diverse economic and social demands, and that experience counts,” the governor said, stressing that effective governance requires both technical expertise and political maturity.
Makinde anchored his argument on his dual experience as a trained engineer and a former private-sector executive, noting that he built and ran a successful company long before entering politics.
According to him, his professional journey exposed him to global corporate standards and accountability.
“Before politics, I was already leading major projects for multinational firms, not chasing government contracts,” he said, adding that early exposure to responsibility shaped his leadership style.
The remarks were made during a media interaction with selected journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where the governor reflected on his political journey and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
He pointed out that by 2027, he would have completed two full terms as governor, a milestone he believes further strengthens his credentials.
However, Makinde was careful to downplay any immediate presidential ambition, arguing that discussions around the 2027 election remain premature.
Hence, he urged political actors to focus on governance rather than early campaigning.
Beyond personal ambition, the governor expressed concern over the weakening of opposition politics in the country.
He criticised the steady movement of influential politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress, warning that such trends could undermine democratic balance.
“Nigeria needs a strong opposition to hold those in power accountable,” Makinde said, describing recent defections as unhealthy for democratic growth.
Although he previously supported President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 election, the governor ruled out repeating that alliance.
Furthermore, he distanced himself from any internal arrangements aimed at backing the president for another term.
Recounting a past political meeting, Makinde disclosed his surprise at suggestions that the Peoples Democratic Party could be mobilised in support of Tinubu ahead of 2027.
“Others may choose that path, but I won’t,” he said.
He concluded by stressing that his immediate focus remains rebuilding and stabilising the PDP, which has been weakened by the exit of several governors and lawmakers.
According to him, preserving a viable opposition is critical to Nigeria’s democratic future.