In a significant turn of events, Plank Sellers Association, Sawmill, Itamo: Ifesowapo, Kwara State have openly declared their support for the governorship ambition of Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as ARABA. The endorsement, which came during an interactive meeting with market leaders and stakeholders in the business, reflects increasing grassroots confidence in his leadership vision.
Speaking on behalf of the wood sellers association, the Chairman emphasized the need for a leader who understands the struggles of small and medium scale business operators. They noted that Engr. Sanni’s track record of accessibility, listening leadership, and practical engagement with everyday people sets him apart as a candidate capable of driving inclusive development.
The traders expressing optimism that ARABA’s administration would prioritize policies that support local businesses and improve their working conditions.
The declaration of support from the group adds to the growing list of groups rallying behind ARABA, signaling a widening acceptance of his governorship bid as the 2027 political landscape in the state continues to take shape.
Party stakeholders in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State have officially endorsed Engr. Femi Sanni (ARABA) for the 2027 gubernatorial race.
The endorsement followed a strategic meeting involving party leaders, ward executives, and key grassroots mobilizers, who expressed strong confidence in ARABA’s leadership capacity and vision for the state.
Speaking at the gathering, stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for purposeful and inclusive governance, noting that Engr. Sanni has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the people and sustainable development.
They described him as a leader with proven experience, accessibility, and a deep understanding of grassroots politics, qualities they believe position him as the best candidate to lead Kwara State forward.
The stakeholders also pledged their full support and mobilization efforts across Ilorin East to ensure a successful outing for ARABA at the polls.
The meeting concluded with a call for unity among party members and a shared commitment to achieving victory in the forthcoming election.
Traders from the Kwara North senatorial district based in Ilorin have thrown their weight behind Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as ARABA, declaring their support for his gubernatorial ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.
The endorsement, which reflects growing grassroots momentum, highlights the traders’ confidence in ARABA’s leadership capacity, economic vision, and commitment to inclusive governance. According to the group, their decision is driven by the need for a leader who understands commerce, grassroots development, and the economic realities of ordinary citizens.
This development aligns with a broader trend across Kwara North, where different groups including youths and stakeholders have increasingly rallied behind ARABA’s candidacy, citing competence, unity, and development focused leadership as key reasons for their support .
With endorsements coming from multiple fronts, ARABA’s campaign continues to gain traction, positioning him as a strong contender in the race for Kwara State’s top seat.
Engr. Femi Sanni fondly called ARABA by his friends and supporters took many by his strategic entrance into the Kwara 2027 governorship race. Sanni’s ambition to take over from Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq started like rumors and later went viral to all 193 wards and 16 local government areas of Kwara State.
From Ilorin to Baruten to Offa back to Asa, everybody is echoing Araba. His support base in the All Progressives Congress (APC) is expanding daily as the party prepares for the governorship primary election.
While many mistaken Engr. Femi Sanni as a newcomer in Kwara politics but people conversant with tragetory of the progressive family can attest to his contributions for over two decades. He aspired for the House of Representatives in 2003 and also indicated to contest the Kwara governorship seat in 2019. These are veritable facts!
Who is the Femi Sanni dominating political space in Kwara. Sanni grew up in Ilorin. He attended Bishop Smith Primary School, Ilorin and proceeded to Government Secondary School, Ilorin for his secondary school education. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from the University of Ilorin.
Upon graduation, he relocated to Canada in search of knowledge and opportunity to add value at higher levels. Sanni is a visionary entrepreneur and engineer whose career embodies the perfect blend of technical mastery, strategic innovation, and social impact. With his multi-sector expertise, Sanni is providing solutions and services in telecommunications, construction, insurance, media, and consulting.
He is the founder of TECHNOPlus, Stëfolga Group (a multi-functional holding company with interests in Oil and Gas, Engineering and the Properties) and Flow FM Radio in Ilorin.
The APC Governorship Aspirant who has secured endorsement of the Party’s stakeholders across three Senatorial districts sees politics as a tool for bringing meaningful change to society, state and the nation.
In his media interview many years ago, he said: “Politics, to me, is a tool for meaningful change. I have always believed that for society to thrive, people with integrity, experience, and outside-the-box thinking must step into leadership.
“For me, politics is not about power; it’s about helping people and making their lives better. I see politics as a way to bring real change. I believe we need honest, kind, and smart people to lead, just like what we are seeing now with President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. I got into politics because I care deeply about Kwara State and its future.”
Interestingly, Araba has been adding value to the society before declaring his aspiration to become Kwara State Governor. He established Flow FM in Ilorin to create jobs, boost the state economy and promote culture heritage/values of his state.
Apart from that, he is also investing in grassroots sports development. His company- Stefolga Group and Flow FM recently signed fifty million naira (N50million) partnership deal with Kwara State Football Association for three-year sponsorship deal for the state’s federation cup. This is not a media optic but a way of giving back to his ‘first love’. Araba’s friends from the hood feel he inherited his passion for football from his father who managed the defunct Tate and Lyle FC in Ilorin.
Beyond enterprise, Femi’s influence extends to youth development and empowerment. He is deeply passionate about nurturing the next generation of African innovators and leaders, and has created platforms that amplify youth voices, promote digital inclusion, and inspire self-reliance.
In recognition of his consistent humanitarian activities across Kwara State, Engr. Femi Sanni received royal honor as the Otun Aare Soludero of Offa Land and Gbobaniyi of Obbo-Aiyegunle in Ekiti local government area.
As Kwarans continue the search for the next Governor, it’s safe to say Engr. Femi Sanni ARABA has reduced the stress of looking for a Visionary Leader. He is an embodiment of exceptional qualities to lead Kwara State to the next phase of development, following unprecedented achievements of His Excellency, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq. ARABA is indeed the Baba with capacity to lead APC to victory in 2027.
As we mark this year’s Workers’ Day, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating the resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions of workers across Kwara State and the nation.
Workers remain the backbone of our economy and the driving force behind development in every sector from public service and education to healthcare, agriculture, and small-scale enterprise.
Their daily sacrifices continue to sustain families, communities, and our collective aspirations as a people.
This year’s commemoration comes at a time of significant economic challenges. Rising costs of living, evolving workplace demands, and concerns about job security have placed considerable pressure on many households. These realities call for renewed attention to policies and actions that prioritize the welfare, dignity, and productivity of the Nigerian worker.
I commend the efforts of organized labour, particularly the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, the Trade Union Congress, TUC, and all their affiliates for their continued advocacy on behalf of workers.
Their role in promoting fairness, dialogue, and social justice remains critical to national progress. It is important for all stakeholders government, private sector, and civil society to continue working collaboratively to create an environment where workers are supported, opportunities are expanded, and enterprise can thrive.
Strengthening skills development, encouraging innovation, supporting small businesses, and ensuring fair treatment in workplaces are essential steps toward a more inclusive and productive economy.
On this day, we are reminded that the dignity of labour must remain central to our shared values. Every worker deserves respect, fair conditions, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.
I salute the hardworking people of Kwara State and encourage continued commitment to excellence, integrity, and service. Happy Workers’ Day.
… Chief Idris Olorunnimbe exits creative powerhouse to focus on NCC role
Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Chief Idris Olorunnimbe has resigned his position following a decision taken some time ago, upon his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in fulfillment of statutory obligations stipulated by the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA).
He will also be fully engaged in managing his other interests that span advisory and investments in various sectors of the economy.
The organisation has named Terfa Tilley-Gyado to lead its next phase of expansion and impact. A former Executive Director, Tilley-Gyado brings extensive experience to his new role as President of The Temple Company Group.
Under Olorunnimbe’s leadership, The Temple Company evolved from a full-service talent management firm founded in 2016 into a multi-vertical creative powerhouse with reach well beyond Nigeria’s borders. That growth gave rise to a world-class production infrastructure in Ogidi Studios, as well as TMPL Motion Pictures and H&T Agency, among others.
As part of the reorganisation, The Temple Company announced the elevation of several executives into its senior management team: Yemisi Falaye – Vice President, Legal and Learning, Kolawole Fashola – Vice President, Operations and Tech, Femi Salawu – Vice President, Influence and Reputation, Adedamilola Adedotun – Vice President, Ventures and Sports and Oladoyin Bakare – Vice President, People and Partnerships.
Speaking on the new direction, Tilley-Gyado said: “We commend our visionary founder for laying the building blocks that will help me and my team propel this organisation to the next level. Our partners can be assured of a renewed commitment to push the boundaries of African excellence through the creative industry.”
The journey to purposeful leadership begins with bold decisions, clear vision, and the courage to answer the call of the people. That defining moment has arrived as Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, officially picks his Expression of Interest (EOI) and Nomination Form for the gubernatorial race, signaling strong readiness to lead Kwara State into a new era of growth and development.
This significant step is more than a political procedure it is a declaration of preparedness, commitment, and confidence in the future of Kwara. It reflects a leader who understands the enormous responsibility of governance and is fully prepared to offer tested leadership built on competence, integrity, and service.
For years, Engr. Femi Sanni has remained a strong force in business, youth empowerment, media development, and grassroots politics. As Chairman of Stefolga Group and founder of Flow FM, he has consistently demonstrated leadership that creates opportunities, supports communities, and drives economic progress. His impact extends beyond politics into real-life solutions that have touched countless lives across the state.
By picking his EOI and Nomination Form, he has once again shown that leadership is not about mere ambition, but about responsibility and readiness. His aspiration is rooted in a vision of inclusive governance where every senatorial district North, Central, and South feels the presence of government and benefits from genuine development.
His supporters across Kwara have described this moment as timely and strategic. Many see him as a bridge builder, a unifier, and a practical leader capable of transforming governance from promises into measurable results. His popularity among youths, women, professionals, and grassroots stakeholders continues to grow because of his accessible style of leadership and his consistent commitment to people-centered progress.
Engr. Femi Sanni represents a generation of leadership that believes governance should drive industrial growth, youth employment, educational advancement, infrastructure renewal, and economic independence. His emergence in the gubernatorial race offers hope to many who desire a stronger and more prosperous Kwara.
The picking of the EOI and Nomination Form is therefore not just an announcement it is a statement that the race for 2027 has gained serious momentum.
Kwara deserves a leader with vision. Kwara deserves a leader with capacity. Kwara deserves a leader with proven results.
Engr. Femi Sanni has stepped forward.
The mission is clear. The people are ready. And the leader is prepared.
ABUJA — A major development has emerged in the race for the Kwara State governorship as All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, on Tuesday formally picked his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, signaling his official entry into the contest.
Sanni obtained the forms at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel, in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, in what observers described as a strategic and symbolic move that underscores his growing influence within the party.
Speaking shortly after picking the forms, Sanni expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering internal democracy within the APC, noting that the current process reflects a commitment to fairness and inclusivity.
“I want to sincerely thank President Bola Tinubu for creating an enabling environment where aspirants like myself can freely express their ambitions. What we are seeing today is a demonstration of true democratic values within our great party,” he said.
He also commended Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for what he described as a level playing field for all aspirants, irrespective of political leaning or background.
“I must also appreciate His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for ensuring a level playing ground for all contenders. This speaks volumes about his leadership style and his commitment to equity within the APC in Kwara State,” Sanni added.
The governorship hopeful further extended gratitude to the APC leadership at both state and national levels for guaranteeing a transparent and inclusive process.
Sanni, who has been consulting widely across the three senatorial districts of Kwara State, said his decision to contest is rooted in a desire to consolidate on existing gains while unlocking new economic opportunities for the people.
“Our consultations across Kwara North, Central and South have been very encouraging. The message from the grassroots is clear — our people want purposeful leadership, economic expansion, and inclusive governance.
That is what we represent,” he said. Political watchers increasingly regard Sanni as one of the frontrunners in the APC governorship race, citing his growing grassroots support, cross-regional acceptability, and strong engagement with stakeholders across the state.
With the formal acquisition of his nomination forms, the race for Kwara’s top seat is expected to gather momentum in the coming weeks as party primaries draw closer.
As the political landscape in Kwara State gradually shapes toward the 2027 gubernatorial election, one name continues to resonate strongly across the three senatorial districts Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba. His rising political profile is not built on mere slogans or seasonal ambition, but on years of visible impact, strategic leadership, grassroots connection, and an unwavering commitment to the development of Kwara State.
In a time when citizens are demanding competence over propaganda and performance over promises, Engr. Femi Sanni stands out as a leader whose track record speaks louder than political rhetoric. His journey in leadership, philanthropy, youth empowerment, sports development, and community advancement has positioned him as one of the most credible and formidable gubernatorial aspirants for 2027.
A Leader with Vision, Capacity, and Results Leadership is not defined by title alone, but by the ability to inspire change, solve problems, and uplift people. Engr. Femi Sanni has consistently demonstrated these qualities through his engagements across sectors. His reputation as a builder of people and institutions has earned him respect among youths, party stakeholders, traditional leaders, and the general public.
Unlike many politicians who emerge only during election cycles, Araba has remained consistently connected to the people. His interventions in community development, support for young entrepreneurs, educational assistance, and social welfare programs have created real impact in the lives of ordinary Kwarans.
His leadership style reflects a deep understanding of governance not as a privilege, but as a responsibility to serve.
Champion of Youth and Grassroots Development One of the strongest pillars of Engr. Femi Sanni’s political strength is his deep rooted connection with the grassroots. Across local governments, communities, and wards, he is known as a man who listens, responds, and acts. His commitment to youth development is particularly remarkable. At a time when unemployment and lack of opportunities remain major concerns, Araba has continued to invest in empowering young people through mentorship, support systems, and opportunities for growth. His belief that the future of Kwara lies in the hands of its youth has guided many of his initiatives.
This is not politics for headlines it is leadership for lasting impact.
Transforming Sports, Inspiring Hope His recent landmark ₦50 million sponsorship of the Kwara State FA Cup through Stefolga Group and Flow FM remains one of the boldest private sector interventions in grassroots sports development in the state’s recent history.
This move was not just about football it was about hope, opportunity, and the recognition that sports can serve as a powerful tool for youth engagement, talent discovery, and economic empowerment.
By investing in sports, Engr. Femi Sanni demonstrated practical leadership and a clear understanding of how strategic interventions can create long term social benefits. It was a statement of vision, not mere charity.
A Bridge Between Experience and New Generation Leadership Kwara needs a governor who can combine experience with innovation, tradition with progress, and political wisdom with fresh energy. Engr. Femi Sanni represents that balance.
He understands governance, respects institutions, and values the importance of inclusive leadership. At the same time, he connects naturally with the younger generation who seek modern solutions to modern challenges.
His political maturity, administrative capacity, and people centered approach make him not just an aspirant, but a prepared leader ready for the responsibility of governing Kwara State.
Why 2027 Belongs to Araba The 2027 governorship election will not simply be about party structures or political calculations it will be about trust, competence, and who the people believe can truly move Kwara forward.
Engr. Femi Sanni has built trust through service. He has shown competence through results. He has earned loyalty through consistency. Kwarans are increasingly looking beyond conventional politics and asking critical questions: Who understands the people? Who has shown genuine commitment? Who can deliver beyond campaign promises? For many, the answer is becoming clearer Araba.
The Time for Tested Leadership Kwara State deserves leadership that is bold, visionary, and people driven. It deserves a governor who understands both the pain of the people and the pathway to progress.
Engr. Femi Sanni is not presenting himself as a candidate of empty promises, but as a leader whose work already reflects the future he envisions for the state.
His proven track record has shown he is not just capable he is ready. As 2027 approaches, the conversation is no longer about whether Araba is qualified. The real question is whether Kwara can afford to ignore the opportunity for tested, transformational leadership.
The answer, for many across the state, is simple: Engr. Femi Sanni (Araba) is the best man for the job.
The maiden edition of the Kwara State Football Association FA Cup, proudly sponsored by Stefolga Group and Flow FM through the leadership of Engr. Femi Sanni, reaches its exciting grand finale today, marking a significant milestone in grassroots football development across Kwara State.
It will be recalled that Stefolga/Flow FM recently sealed a ₦50 million sponsorship deal with the Kwara FA to support the competition an initiative widely celebrated as a major boost for football growth, youth empowerment, and talent discovery in the state.
Since the tournament kicked off about a week ago, clubs from across Kwara have displayed exceptional talent, passion, and determination, competing fiercely in both the male and female categories.
In the men’s final, Kwara United F.C. will face Gaa Akanbi FC in what promises to be a thrilling showdown, while the women’s final will feature Moje Queens FC against Mode Queen FC.
Both matches are set to take place at the Kwara State Stadium Complex, where football fans and supporters are expected to troop in large numbers to witness the historic conclusion of the competition.
Stakeholders across the sports sector have praised the sponsorship by Stefolga and Flow FM as a bold investment in sports development, especially at the grassroots level, giving young athletes and local clubs a stronger platform to shine and compete at higher levels.
As anticipation builds across the state, football lovers eagerly await the final whistle that will crown the first champions of this prestigious competition under the new sponsorship era.
