Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said he possesses more than enough experience to serve as Nigeria’s president if called upon in 2027.
Makinde made the remarks during a media chat on Tuesday while responding to a question about his political future.
He clarified that his qualifications for the nation’s highest office are not in doubt, pointing to his record as governor of Oyo State.
The governor argued that executive experience at the state level has historically prepared leaders for the presidency, citing the pathway of the incumbent president, Bola Tinubu who previously served as governor of Lagos State.
Makinde also highlighted his professional background outside politics, stating that he successfully ran a private company from a young age, beginning at 29.
He said, “I have heard that also, people saying, ‘Oh, ‘Is Seyi trying to position himself for the 2027 presidency?’ Let me make this very clear, to serve this country at the highest level, I am qualified. I am even overqualified. I have run Oyo State. Even the current president, what brought him to the table? He was governor of Lagos State. By the end of May 2027, by God’s grace, God sparing my life, I would have been to the end of the tenure of two-time governor of Oyo State. So what are we talking about? Professionally, I run a company from a very young age, at 29.”
Makinde, during the media chat, also said he wants his administration to be remembered for the institutions it is creating to ensure good governance, sustainable development, and growth long after his tenure ends.
“We would love to be remembered for the institutions that we’re creating that will ensure good governance and sustainable development and growth long after we’ve left this place.