JUST IN: Wale Sulaiman secures Kwara governorship forms amid key backing

By Adelodun Usman

APC chieftain and governorship aspirant, Prof. Wale Sulaiman, CON, has formally entered the race for the 2027 Kwara State governorship after picking his Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His entry marks a defining moment in the unfolding political contest, coming on the heels of months of wide-ranging consultations with party leaders, grassroots stakeholders and key actors at both state and national levels.

Sources close to the process say the decision was sealed following strong endorsements and encouragement from influential stakeholders across the three senatorial districts.

Prof. Sulaiman, who contested the Kwara South Senatorial election in 2023 and garnered over 27,000 votes, is widely regarded as a candidate with growing grassroots appeal, particularly among professionals, artisans, youths and women.

His supporters point to his consistent engagement across communities as evidence of an expanding political base.

A globally respected neurosurgeon and former Special Adviser on Health Matters to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, CON, Prof. Sulaiman has built a reputation around policy depth, institutional thinking, and results-driven leadership.

His role in shaping key healthcare interventions in the state, alongside his international profile, has strengthened his credentials within the party and beyond.

In recognition of his contributions, he was conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2023 and named among the NIDCOM Top 600 Diaspora Icons at 60, celebrating Nigerians who have distinguished themselves globally.

His governorship bid is anchored on the “Kwara Prosperity Agenda,” a policy framework focused on strengthening healthcare delivery, expanding access to quality education, stimulating economic growth, and creating sustainable employment opportunities.

Notably, Prof. Sulaiman was also recently spotted in a private audience with Chief Bisi Akande, former Interim National Chairman of the APC and a key ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The meeting with the elder statesman widely regarded as a leading voice within the progressive movement has generated significant interest among political observers, with many interpreting it as a strategic move to consolidate national backing ahead of the primaries.

Political analysts believe his emphasis on party unity, inclusive leadership, and institutional discipline could play a defining role in the APC primaries.

His emergence adds a technocratic dimension to the race, positioning him as one of the notable contenders to watch.

Further details are expected in the coming days as Prof. Sulaiman intensifies engagement with party members and formally unveils the next phase of his campaign.