Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that he possesses the experience and qualifications required to lead Nigeria at the highest level. He made the statement on Tuesday while fielding questions from selected journalists during a media parley in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Makinde based his confidence on his background as an engineer and his years of executive leadership in both the private and public sectors. According to him, his record as a two-term governor places him among leaders capable of handling national responsibility.
“Let me make this very clear: to serve this country at the highest level, I am qualified — I am even overqualified,” Makinde told the journalists.
Makinde Highlights Leadership and Professional Record
The governor compared his political journey with that of past national leaders. He noted that President Bola Tinubu served two terms as Lagos State governor before becoming president, adding that he will complete his own two-term tenure in Oyo State by May 2027.
Makinde also highlighted his private-sector experience. He said he built and ran an engineering company at a young age and worked with multinational oil firms such as Shell, ExxonMobil, and Chevron without relying on government patronage.
He Warns Against One-Party Dominance
Although he addressed leadership readiness, Makinde said it remains too early to focus on the 2027 presidential race. He stressed that Nigeria needs a strong democratic system supported by vibrant opposition parties.
The governor criticised the defection of governors and senior politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress, warning that such moves weaken democratic competition and national stability.
Makinde Rules Out Supporting Tinubu in 2027
Makinde confirmed that although he supported President Tinubu in the 2023 election, he will not repeat that decision in 2027. He said the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, remains free to support the president if he chooses.
“I was shocked when Wike volunteered to hold the PDP for Tinubu ahead of 2027,” Makinde said. “Wike can support the president, but I will not.”
Makinde, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, currently serves his second and final term as Oyo State governor.
