Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has formally accepted his nomination as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) for the 2027 presidential election, declaring that Nigeria requires a comprehensive reset to address worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges.
Speaking on Saturday, May 30, 2026, during his acceptance speech, Makinde said the country was facing a period of deep national pain marked by rising hunger, insecurity, transportation costs, and uncertainty about the future.
According to him, Nigerians are increasingly questioning when leadership will begin to work for ordinary citizens and deliver what he described as the “Nigerian Dream.”
“We cannot continue recycling the same leadership approaches while expecting different results. A new direction must emerge; one built on competence, courage, accountability and compassion for the people,” he stated.
The governor expressed concern over the recent security situation in Oyo State and the continued captivity of abducted schoolchildren and other citizens. He argued that governors are often held responsible for security outcomes without having constitutional control over security agencies.
Makinde pledged that if elected President, he would pursue reforms aimed at decentralising Nigeria’s security architecture to allow states play a more effective role in protecting lives and property.
“As President of Nigeria, I will work to reform our national security architecture so that states are no longer left helpless in moments of crisis,” he said.
On the economy, the APM presidential candidate promised practical reforms aimed at ensuring Nigerians benefit more directly from the country’s oil wealth. He advocated transparent petroleum pricing mechanisms and measures to protect citizens from arbitrary fuel price increases.
Makinde also pledged to reform the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing his vision as one that would make the organisation leaner, more efficient and commercially driven through institutional reforms and improved joint venture structures.
He further proposed restructuring the ownership framework of Nigeria’s refineries, arguing that the country could no longer afford to continue investing heavily in systems that fail to deliver value to citizens.
The governor also highlighted transportation and food security as key priorities of his administration if elected. He promised to expand transportation support programmes and develop data-driven agricultural policies to improve production, processing, storage and food distribution across the country.
Addressing supporters, Makinde said his presidential ambition was not about personal ambition but about rebuilding confidence in Nigeria and restoring hope among citizens.
“I do not stand here promising miracles. I stand here promising leadership that listens, leadership that acts, and leadership that understands that governance must improve the lives of ordinary people,” he said.
He added that his campaign would focus on solutions, competence and the future of the country.
Makinde concluded by calling on Nigerians to join him in building a nation where security, opportunity and responsive leadership are accessible to all citizens.
