Makinde Expresses Readiness for 2027 Presidency, Stresses Focus on Governance and Party Rebuilding

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed confidence in his capacity to lead Nigeria, declaring that he possesses the competence and experience required to contest for the presidency in the 2027 general election.

Speaking during a live interview on *Channels Television’s* *Politics Today* on Tuesday, Makinde emphasized that his performance as governor has proven his readiness to take on the responsibilities of the nation’s highest office.

“I don’t have any doubt that I have the capacity to occupy the highest office in this land. I have what it takes,” Makinde stated emphatically.

While making a case for his leadership potential, the governor was quick to temper expectations by acknowledging that personal ambition must align with the desires of both the Nigerian people and his political party—the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“But is it what I want to do right now? Is it what Nigerians are asking for? Is it what my party will say we should do? I don’t know. We still have a long time to go,” he said, suggesting that his ultimate decision would be guided by broader consensus rather than personal aspiration alone.

Makinde, who is currently serving his second term as governor, underscored the urgent need to restore unity and credibility within the PDP, which has faced internal divisions and electoral setbacks in recent years.

“Where we are right now is, you know, we must fix our party. You must have a solid platform before you can even aspire to be anything,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to party strengthening and internal cohesion.

The governor also distanced himself from what he described as “stunt politics” and populist posturing, noting that his focus remains on delivering good governance and fulfilling the mandate entrusted to him by the people of Oyo State.

“Right now, I’m focusing on the responsibilities I’ve been given. I’m not distracted, and I will not engage in political theatrics. My approach to leadership is grounded in substance, not showmanship,” Makinde explained.

He further stressed that any decision to run for president—or any other national office—would be made only after thoughtful consideration and strategic preparation.

“One thing you should expect from Seyi Makinde is that he will never come out to say, ‘I want to do this or that,’ without proper preparation and a clear sense of accountability for whatever I commit to,” he added.

Reflecting on his political journey, which began in 2007, Makinde said he remains fulfilled with his achievements, regardless of what the future holds.

“If my political journey ends right here, I am also very happy. When I joined politics, I wanted to be a senator. I didn’t imagine I’d one day become governor. So, I’m grateful for how far I’ve come,” he said.

Makinde’s comments come amid growing speculation about potential candidates for the 2027 presidential race, as political observers begin to analyze the post-2023 landscape. Though he stopped short of announcing a formal ambition, his remarks have fueled conversations around his role in the PDP’s future and the broader political narrative leading into the next election cycle.

As the political climate continues to evolve, Makinde’s measured yet assertive posture may signal his intent to play a more prominent national role—either as a unifying figure within the PDP or as a potential contender for the presidency.

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Mnangagwa faces his biggest threat yet as a fierce succession battle rages on in Zimbabwe, while US stocks plummet after Trump announces tariffs on most countries.

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The big question on everyone’s mind is Trump’s Tariffs: A Threat to American Jobs or a Boost to Automation? Meanwhile, sports fans will be thrilled to know that Cristiano Ronaldo is making his Hollywood debut with an action-packed film studio venture.

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