Former Special Adviser on Health Matters in Kwara State, Prof. Wale Sulaiman, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, pledging to consolidate the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and deepen development across the state.
Wale Sulaiman, a renowned neurosurgeon and former health aide to the governor, made his declaration during a stakeholders’ engagement with APC leaders and party executives in Ajase-Ipo Ward I, Irepodun Local Government Area.
The declaration places him among the early contenders in what is already shaping up to be a competitive race for the APC ticket ahead of the 2027 general election in Kwara.
Addressing party leaders and supporters, the governorship hopeful said his ambition was driven by a desire to sustain the current administration’s reforms while positioning the state for its next phase of growth.
According to him, Kwara requires leadership built on competence, integrity, and broad local and international exposure.
“It is not yet time for the campaign, but today I am here to formally express my interest in contesting for governor in 2027. We need someone with the capacity, capability, and competence to continue the good work already being done,” he said.
Wale Sulaiman praised Governor AbdulRazaq for ongoing urban renewal projects and people-focused policies, noting that his administration had laid a foundation that should be strengthened rather than disrupted.
He also referenced his own contributions during the COVID-19 period, including interventions in the health sector and the revival of critical medical infrastructure in the state.
Among the initiatives he highlighted was the restoration of the oxygen plant at Sobi Specialist Hospital, which had reportedly remained inactive for years.
The professor of neurosurgery said his proposed policy framework, tagged the Kwara Prosperity Agenda, would focus on inclusive development, healthcare expansion, innovation, youth empowerment, education reforms, and stronger economic opportunities across the three senatorial districts.
He stressed the need for party unity, describing cohesion within the APC as critical to electoral success and governance stability.
“Kwara deserves a unifier, not a divider,” he said, adding that his aspiration is anchored on collective progress and inclusive leadership.
Party elders and ward executives who spoke at the meeting described Sulaiman as a credible aspirant with strong professional credentials and growing grassroots support.
Political observers say his formal entry further intensifies early permutations within the APC as stakeholders continue consultations over the party’s eventual flag bearer for 2027.
