Frontline aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, on Tuesday submitted his letter of intent to contest for the governorship of Kwara State at the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Ilorin.
With the move, Araba joins other aspirants who have formally indicated interest in the 2027 governorship race under the APC banner.
Speaking shortly after submitting his letter, Araba said his ambition is driven by a desire to unite the party and build on existing achievements.
“I am not running for governor to retire some people, neither am I running to witch-hunt anyone,” he said. “I am a bridge builder. I am here to unify all interests within the party and the state at large.”
He added that his administration, if elected, would consolidate on the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
“Even more importantly, we need to consolidate on what Governor AbdulRazaq has done for Kwara,” he stated, expressing confidence that he will emerge governor in 2027.
Responding, the APC State Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, described Araba as a core member of the party and acknowledged his contributions to its growth in the state.
“I remember when we all started; it was in your house,” Fagbemi said. “You laid the foundation the APC is enjoying in the state today. Let nobody discourage you. It is within your right to aspire to be governor after what you have done.”
The submission of the letter of intent marks a significant step in Araba’s formal entry into the contest as the party prepares for primaries ahead of the 2027 general election.
Youths from the 5 Local Government Areas of Kwara North Senatorial District have formally declared their support for the gubernatorial aspiration of Engr. Femi Sanni, widely known as Araba.
The declaration took place at the Nupe Emirate Council meeting point, where a convergence of young people from Edu, Moro, Kaiama, Baruten, and Patigi Local Government Areas gathered to express a unified position in favour of the aspirant.
Addressing newsmen on behalf of the gathering, Comrade Abdulrahman Alfa from Patigi Local Government said the endorsement followed extensive consultations among youth groups across the district.
He cited Araba’s competence, longstanding commitment to youth development, and progressive vision for Kwara State as key reasons for their decision.
“We believe Engr. Femi Sanni possesses the capacity to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership for Kwara State,” Alfa stated. “Our support is driven by the conviction that our state requires experienced, people-centered leadership that truly understands the needs of youths and communities across all senatorial districts.”
The event drew participants from across the five LGAs, with attendees reaffirming their resolve to rally behind the aspirant as the 2027 gubernatorial race gathers momentum.
…Religious Leaders Gather in Ilorin to Seek Divine Intervention for Election Success
A special prayer programme in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the governorship aspiration of Engr. Femi Sanni Araba was held on Sunday at Government Day Secondary School, Amule, Ilorin.
The event was hosted by the Kwara Central Ulama and drew religious leaders, party faithful, supporters, and community stakeholders from across the region.
The gathering focused on offering prayers for peace, progress, and sustained good governance at both state and national levels. Organizers described the programme as a platform to promote unity, strengthen party loyalty, and energize grassroots support ahead of the coming elections.
Participants engaged in collective supplications seeking divine guidance for the President’s re-election efforts and for the actualization of Engr. Araba’s governorship ambition. The Ulama also prayed for continued stability and development in Kwara State under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s leadership.
The event underscored the role of religious institutions in mobilizing spiritual support for political leadership and fostering community cohesion during election seasons.
Visionary engineer, founder of Africa’s first mobile phone repair assurance company, honoured for blending technical innovation with grassroots development.
The 2026 edition of the prestigious INAward has named Engr. Femi Olufemi Sanni, widely known as Araba, as its Social Impact Man of the Year, a recognition that celebrates his unique fusion of engineering excellence, entrepreneurial daring, and community-focused philanthropy.
Araba, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (FNICE) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), is not your conventional businessman. Long before the current wave of tech-driven service models swept across Nigeria, he pioneered Africa’s first mobile phone repair assurance company, a bold, forward-thinking solution that changed how millions of consumers protect their devices. By introducing a structured, reliable warranty system for phone repairs, he filled a critical gap in the continent’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem, offering customer protection and service reliability where none previously existed.
But his impact stretches far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. Over the past decade, Araba has quietly built a reputation as a philanthropist who prefers action over applause. Through his Stefolga Group, his commercial radio station Flow FM 92.7, and his football development initiative Araba FC, he has touched thousands of lives in Kwara State and beyond, from free medical outreaches that have served over 450 people in a single day to youth empowerment programmes that give young people tangible skills and hope.
The INAward 2026 citation highlighted Araba’s ability to “marry technical mastery with a heart for the people,” noting that his brand of social impact is not reactive but structural. By building enterprises that solve real problems and simultaneously channelling resources into education, health, and grassroots sports, he has created a replicable model for sustainable development.
In his acceptance, Araba dedicated the award to the “unsung heroes of Kwara” – the everyday citizens, the market women, the young dreamers, and the community leaders who inspire him to keep pushing boundaries. “True social impact is not about the size of your cheque,” he said. “It is about the consistency of your presence and the depth of your care.”
The award further cements Araba’s growing influence as a technocrat with a social conscience, positioning him not only as a business icon but as a leading voice in the conversation about inclusive, people-first development in Nigeria.
…APC leaders cite grassroots strength, economic vision as reasons for backing Araba
Stakeholders in Irepodun Local Government have endorsed Engr. Femi “Araba” Sanni for the 2027 Kwara governorship race.
The endorsement was made at a meeting in Ajase-Ipo attended by party leaders and grassroots mobilisers, including former APC State Secretary, Bode Adekanye, and former Commissioner for Finance, Abel Adewumi.
Adekanye said the group backed Sanni for his “consistency and grassroots connection,” while Adewumi described him as “well-positioned to drive economic growth and fiscal discipline.”
Responding, Sanni thanked the stakeholders, calling them “pillars of Kwara’s political development.”
“I am honoured by your support. Our focus will be policies that grow the economy, support businesses, and create jobs for our people,” he said.
He added that his vision centres on inclusive growth, SME development, and strengthening the state’s economic base.
The stakeholders pledged to mobilise wider support ahead of the party primaries.
Veteran actor Pa Ajirebi, broadcaster Dankazeem, and other creative industry leaders throw weight behind aspirant at packed O2 Arena event, citing his philanthropy, vision, and track record.
The gubernatorial bid of Engr. Femi Sanni (Araba) received a massive boost on Thursday as the creative industry in Kwara State, under the aegis of Kwara Entertainers formally endorsed his aspiration for the 2027 governorship race.
The endorsement event, held at the O2 Arena Event Center along Ajase-Ipo Road, Ilorin and covered by 9japarrot media was a vibrant blend of political mobilization and cultural showcase, drawing a massive crowd of veteran and contemporary entertainers, party loyalists, and supporters.
During the event Stakeholders in their respective goodwill messages commended the gubernatorial aspirant for his philanthropic gestures and community development over the years acknowledging that vying for the revered gubernatorial seat wouldn’t be a much task to achieve because his good antecedents would speak for him.
The major highlight of the event was the testimonial from the legendary Nigerian comic actor and filmmaker, Kayode Olasehinde Ajirebi (Pa Ajirebi.
Speaking with conviction in his goodwill message, the veteran actor expressed total optimism in the Araba 2027 project.
“I have never supported a loser in my life. I am glad I was part of those who contributed to the success of the current Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq”. He said.
“The Araba 2027 task is another success story on the way,” Pa Ajirebi added while commending him for the support he has rendered to the industry over the years.
Renowned Broadcaster, Alhaji Abdulfatai Adeniyi Dankazeem in his remarks delivered a stirring goodwill message characterising Araba as the best bet for Kwarans.
He attributed industrial and people’s success to the aspirant, noting that his vision for a better Kwara under him is a done deal tying his success story as the first person in Africa with a creativity to established a phone repair company employing thousands of young people.
On his part Isiaq Olubisi Awopegba, an ace dramatist, added that Kwarans need a leader who understands the role of the creative economy and that’s no any other person than Engr Femi Sanni.
Adding to the discourse, Alhaji Sulaiman Akinkanju offered prayers and solidarity on behalf of the traditional performers, urging all Entertainers to rally round the aspirations of the Aspirant.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Convener of the event, Mr. Funsho Aliyu explained that the entertainers chose to back Engr. Sanni because of his track record as a professional and his vision for a modern, industrialized Kwara.
Urging all participants to take the message to their various constituency canvassing support towards the actualization of Araba 2027 project.
The venue was filled to capacity, with supporters spilling out into the surrounding areas. The event featured various cultural interludes, highlighting the rich heritage of Kwara State and the creative community’s dedication to the Araba movement.
Engr. Femi Sanni, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (FNICE) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) is being positioned by his supporters as a technocrat with a heart for the people, capable of building on the infrastructural legacy of the current administration.
The endorsement by the entertainers is seen as a strategic move to tap into the influential power of the creative sector as the race to succeed Governor AbdulRazaq intensifies.
…Describes Traditional Title as Well-Deserved Honor and Call to Greater Responsibility
Engr. Femi Sanni has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Alhaji Najeemdeen Usman Yasin on his installation as the Bashorun of Offa and on the occasion of his birthday. In a congratulatory message, Sanni described the conferment of the revered title as a well-deserved honor in recognition of Yasin’s unwavering commitment to community development, leadership, and service to humanity.
He noted that the title reflects personal achievements and also calls for greater responsibility in advancing the unity, peace, and progress of Offa. “Your installation as Bashorun of Offa is a testament to your integrity, dedication, and the high regard in which you are held by the good people of Offa,” Sanni stated. He expressed confidence that Yasin would continue to exemplify excellence and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the community.
Sanni also joined family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating Alhaji Yasin on his birthday, praying for good health, long life, and continued wisdom in his new traditional role. He reaffirmed his belief in the importance of traditional institutions for grassroots development and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote cultural heritage and community advancement.
He concluded by wishing the Bashorun of Offa a successful tenure filled with impactful achievements and an enduring legacy.
…Cites Aspirant’s Policy Proposals on State Policing, Power, Economic Growth
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State, a prominent youth advocacy group, Kwara Youth for Good Governance, has again declared its unwavering support for governorship aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni popularly known as Araba, following a strategic engagement held in Ilorin.
The earlier endorsement signals new alignment among youth stakeholders in Kwara State, with the group describing Femi Sanni’s agenda as practical, people oriented, and reflective of the aspirations of young people across the state.
Speaking after the meeting, a representative of the group, Abdulrahman from Patigi Local Government Area, said the decision to back Araba was driven by his clarity of purpose and commitment to addressing key challenges facing Kwara.
During the engagement, Femi Sanni stated that critical policy directions of the president, placing strong emphasis on the need for state policing as a solution to rising security concerns at the grassroots level.
According to Femi Sanni, a decentralized security framework would enhance intelligence gathering, enable faster response to threats, and better address community specific challenges across Kwara State.
He also praised the president’s reforms in the power sector, stressing that the decentralization would unlock economic opportunities, particularly for small and medium scale enterprises. Femi Sanni noted that improved electricity supply would not only boost business productivity but also create jobs and raise living standards in Kwara State, adding that reliable power remains central to industrial growth and innovation.
On governance, the aspirant reiterated his commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, assuring that his administration would continue to create platforms for meaningful youth engagement and broader stakeholder participation in decision making. He emphasized that sustainable development in Kwara State can only be achieved when governance reflects the voices of the people.
In a further push to drive economic growth, Femi Sanni unveiled plans to position Kwara as a “Conference hub State,” a vision aimed at attracting national and international events to the state by riding on the great work started by Governor Abdulrahman in the area of infrastructure. He explained that such an initiative would boost tourism, stimulate local businesses, and significantly increase internally generated revenue.
The Kwara Youth for Good Governance group subsequently pledged to mobilize grassroots support for Engr. Femi Sanni across all 16 local government areas, reinforcing the growing role of young voters in the build-up to the Kwara 2027 governorship race. The group also called on Kwarans, particularly the youth, to rally behind leadership anchored on competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to development.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, political observers note that endorsements from youth driven organizations would play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the Kwara governorship contest.
…Progressive Women Initiative highlights youth empowerment, inclusive growth as key reasons
A women-led political advocacy group, the Progressive Women Initiative (PWI), has thrown its weight behind Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as “Araba,” as its preferred aspirant for the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The endorsement was formally announced on Tuesday in Ilorin during a well-attended gathering of women drawn from various local government areas across the state, signaling what observers describe as an early political alignment ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Speaking at the event, PWI President, Mrs Grace Adeoti, said the group’s decision followed extensive consultations and was anchored on the urgent need for a visionary, compassionate and people-oriented leader capable of repositioning Kwara as a thriving commercial hub.
More Afrika Eyes News Kwara Gov Donates 1,000 Life Jackets To Patigi For Safer Water Travel “We are endorsing Sanni because we need a leader who understands the aspirations of the people and possesses the capacity to move the state forward,” Adeoti declared.
She described the APC aspirant as a philanthropist with a verifiable track record of empowering young people and promoting self-reliance through various community-based initiatives.
According to her, such qualities are essential for driving inclusive growth and sustainable development in the state.
Adeoti further emphasised the strategic importance of women in shaping electoral outcomes, noting that their collective voice often determines the success or failure of candidates at the polls.
“Women remain a decisive force during elections, and their participation is crucial. We also advocate fair opportunities for women in politics,” she added.
The PWI leader also used the platform to call on residents of Kwara to adopt a more informed and critical approach when making electoral decisions, warning against blind loyalty and political sentiment.
“Voters must not follow blindly. They should examine the background, achievements and impact of those seeking public office before offering support,” she said.
Highlighting key expectations from the 2027 race, Adeoti expressed confidence that if given the mandate, Sanni would prioritize balanced development across all local government areas, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, economic diversification and youth empowerment.
She maintained that Kwara possesses vast untapped resources and strategic advantages that, if properly harnessed under capable leadership, could transform the state into one of Nigeria’s leading commercial centres.
“With the right leadership, Kwara can achieve greater heights and emerge as a hub of development,” Adeoti added.
…Sponsorship Aims to Revitalize Grassroots Football, Boost Competition
The Kwara State Football Association has officially sealed a landmark ₦50 million, three-year sponsorship agreement for the Federation Cup with Stefolga and FlowFM, in a strategic move to boost grassroots football development in the state.
The signing ceremony, held at the premises of FlowFM in Ilorin, attracted key stakeholders in the football community and marked a significant step toward revitalizing one of the state’s oldest football competitions.
Speaking at the event, the CEO of Stefolga and FlowFM, Femi Sanni, commended the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the FA leadership, and participating teams for their commitment to football development.
He described the sponsorship as “just the beginning of many more goodies to come,” assuring stakeholders of sustained support for the growth of the game.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Kwara FA, Idris Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, lauded Engr. Sanni for his pivotal role in recent successes recorded within the state’s football ecosystem. He specifically credited him as instrumental to the President Federation Cup 2025 triumph by Kwara United FC, as well as his contributions to the ongoing renovation of the Main Bowl of the state stadium.
The FA Chairman expressed deep appreciation for the sponsorship, noting that it would significantly enhance the competitiveness and organization of the Federation Cup. He also urged clubs across the state to take full advantage of the registration window, emphasizing that the competition remains a vital platform for talent discovery and exposure.
He further charged Kwara United FC to rise to the occasion and successfully defend their title, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation in Nigerian football.
The sponsorship deal is expected to inject new energy into the competition by improving organization, incentives, and visibility for participating teams.
The event also featured the presentation of kits and jerseys to participating clubs, including Kwara United FC, ABS FC, and Gaa Akanbi FC, among others.
