Makinde Accepts APM Presidential Ticket, Promises Economic Reforms and National Renewal

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially accepted his nomination as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), pledging to rebuild Nigeria’s economy and restore hope through practical reforms and accountable leadership.

Speaking at the party’s endorsement event in Ibadan, Makinde said his decision to seek the nation’s highest office was driven by a desire to address Nigeria’s challenges and improve the lives of ordinary citizens rather than personal ambition.

The governor expressed confidence that Nigeria possesses the resources, talent, and potential needed to overcome its economic and social difficulties if guided by honest leadership and effective policies.

According to him, his administration would focus on implementing practical reforms that deliver measurable benefits to citizens, particularly in critical sectors of the economy.

Makinde identified the oil and gas industry as one of the areas requiring urgent attention, promising to reform the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) into a more efficient, transparent, and commercially driven institution through corporate restructuring and stronger institutional frameworks.

He also highlighted food security as a major priority, describing it as unacceptable that millions of Nigerians continue to experience hunger despite the country's vast agricultural resources.

The APM presidential candidate said his government would begin by gathering accurate data on Nigeria’s agricultural capacity to identify and address gaps in production, storage, processing, and distribution.

Makinde stressed that his campaign would be based on competence, accountability, and practical solutions rather than unrealistic promises.

He told delegates that while he could not promise miracles, he was committed to providing leadership that listens, learns, and acts in the interest of the people.

The event also featured endorsements from political leaders across the country. A delegation from Bauchi State led by Deputy Governor Mohammed Auwal Jatau, representing Governor Bala Mohammed, described Makinde as the type of leader Nigeria needs at a critical point in its history.

The delegation expressed confidence in his vision, experience, and ability to drive national development while assuring him of support from the North-East and other parts of northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the gathering, APM National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle formally affirmed Makinde’s presidential aspiration and described his emergence as a historic moment for the party.

Dantalle said the nomination marked the beginning of what he called a national rescue mission aimed at providing Nigerians with an alternative leadership option ahead of the 2027 general election.

The event attracted party delegates, political stakeholders, coalition partners, and representatives of allied political groups from across the country, including members associated with the emerging "Reset Nigeria Movement."