Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said he is qualified to lead Nigeria, pointing to his experience in governance and the private sector amid growing speculation about his presidential ambition.
Makinde made the remarks during a media interaction with selected journalists in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he addressed questions on his suitability for the nation’s highest office.
The governor said his leadership of Oyo State over two terms and his professional background as an engineer adequately prepare him for national leadership.
He noted that serving as a state governor has often been a stepping stone to the presidency, citing President Bola Tinubu’s two-term tenure as Lagos State governor.
Makinde added that by May 2027, he would have completed his second and final term in office, stressing that his performance as governor is open to public scrutiny.
He also referenced his private sector experience, saying he managed an engineering firm at a young age and worked with multinational oil companies, including Shell, ExxonMobil and Chevron, without relying on government patronage.
While acknowledging reports linking him to the 2027 presidential race, Makinde said it is still too early to formally discuss the contest.
He maintained that Nigeria needs a viable democracy with strong opposition parties and criticised the defection of governors and other senior politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress, describing the trend as unhealthy for the country’s democratic growth.
