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.
A delegation of prominent traditional rulers from Kwara and Oyo States on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Engr. Femi Sanni, popularly known as Araba, at his office in Ilorin.
The royal fathers were led by the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owode I, alongside the Olusin of Ijara Isin, Oba Ademola Julius Ajibola, and the Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Olaniyi Oyatoye Titiloye II. They were accompanied by other chiefs during the visit.
Although details of their discussions were not made public, the visit is widely seen as significant amid growing political activities ahead of the APC governorship primaries in Kwara State.
Speaking after receiving the monarchs, Araba described the visit as both humbling and inspiring, noting the enduring role of traditional institutions in shaping leadership and guiding society.
According to him, the royal fathers have remained a constant source of wisdom and encouragement in his personal and political journey.
“They were in Ilorin for other engagements and graciously decided to visit and pray for me,” he said. “I hold them in very high regard. Their counsel, blessings and fatherly guidance mean a lot, not just to me but to anyone privileged to receive them.”
The APC aspirant reiterated his respect for traditional rulers, emphasizing their importance as custodians of culture and stabilising forces in governance and community development.
Political observers note that such high-profile visits by respected monarchs often carry symbolic weight, especially in a state like Kwara where traditional institutions continue to wield moral influence among the people.
While the monarchs did not speak to the press, their presence at Araba’s office is likely to fuel speculations about growing support for his governorship ambition within influential circles.
The visit comes as consultations and alignments intensify within the APC ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested primary election.
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.
…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.
…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.
In a move that has sent ripples through the political landscape of the “State of Harmony,” the youth demographic of Kwara State has made a definitive stand regarding the future of both the state and the nation.
Under the organized banner of the Kwara Youth for Good Governance, representatives from all 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have formally declared their unwavering support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the gubernatorial candidacy of Engr. Femi Sanni, affectionately known by his supporters as “Araba.”
The declaration, contained in a detailed communiqué issued on Friday, marks a significant shift in local political dynamics. It suggests a strategic alignment between the youth’s vision for federal continuity and a fresh, technocratic approach to state leadership.
The communiqué follows weeks of what the group described as “extensive grassroots consultations, town hall assessments, and rigorous internal debates.”
From the northern reaches of Baruten and Kaiama to the industrial hubs of Offa and the capital in Ilorin, the message from the youth was singular: Kwara requires a leadership synergy that connects the “Renewed Hope” agenda in Abuja directly to the streets of Kwara.
Salman Idris Olamilekan, the Convener of Kwara Youth for Good Governance, signed the document, emphasizing that this was not a decision made in a vacuum.
We have watched, we have listened, and we have analyzed the trajectory of our nation and our state,” Olamilekan stated. “This endorsement is the result of a collective realization that Kwara cannot afford to be an island. We need a bridge-builder at home and a reformer at the center.
A significant portion of the communiqué was dedicated to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Despite the complexities of national economic reforms, the Kwara youths expressed a sophisticated understanding of the “long game.” They commended the President’s boldness in tackling structural issues that have historically hindered Nigeria’s growth.
The group highlighted several key areas where the Tinubu administration’s direction aligns with youth interests.
The youths argued that “changing horses mid-stream” would only reset the progress made in the last few years, asserting that continuity at the federal level is the safest bet for national growth.
While the federal endorsement focused on stability, the state endorsement for Engr. Femi Sanni focused on transformation. The nickname “Araba” referring to the mighty Mahogany tree is symbolic of the strength, shelter, and deep roots Sanni has established within the Kwara community.
The Kwara Youth for Good Governance meticulously detailed why Sanni is their choice to succeed the current administration. According to the communiqué, the “Araba” vision is built on four pillars.
As an engineer, Sanni is viewed through the lens of a “fixer.” The youths expressed a preference for a leader who understands the mechanics of infrastructure, urban planning, and industrialization. In a state looking to modernize its economy, a technocratic background is seen as a major asset.
The group praised Sanni’s “people-oriented” approach. Unlike the ivory-tower politics often criticized by the youth, Sanni’s campaign has been characterized by direct engagement with local artisans, students, and young entrepreneurs.
This announcement is more than just a statement on paper; it is a call to action. The group revealed that they have already begun setting up “Good Governance Directorates” across the 193 wards of Kwara State. These directorates will serve as hubs for voter education, mobilization, and the promotion of the Tinubu-Sanni ticket.
The youths pledged their readiness to engage in a door-to-door campaign to explain the benefits of this partnership to the elderly, the market women, and their fellow young citizens. They emphasized that this declaration was made “freely and independently,” aimed at correcting the narrative that youth involvement in politics is purely transactional.
The communiqué concluded with a powerful plea for unity among Kwarans. The youths stressed that the era of divisive politics must give way to an era of “Inclusion and Progress.”
By backing a seasoned engineer like Sanni and a veteran reformer like Tinubu, the Kwara Youth for Good Governance believes they are securing a future where the “State of Harmony” becomes the “State of Prosperity.”
As the political season heats up, this 16-LGA endorsement serves as a formidable baseline for the conversations to come. Whether in the bustling markets of Ilorin or the quiet farmlands of Patigi, the name “Araba” and the call for federal continuity are now firmly etched into the Kwara political lexicon.
