The Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District, Oyelola Ashiru, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.

Ashiru made the declaration on Thursday in Ilorin during the unveiling of his policy document titled "My Kwara Covenant: A Blueprint for Inclusive Governance, Shared Prosperity and Generational Renewal."

He described his ambition as a mission to move the state from "potential to prosperity," stressing that governance must deliver tangible impact on the lives of citizens.

"I am declaring my aspiration for Governor of Kwara State because I believe Kwara's time has come not as a slogan, but as a statement of fact," he said.

"The foundation has been built, investments are flowing, and everything this state needs to make the leap from potential to prosperity is within reach. What is needed now is leadership that is prepared to deliver from day one."

The lawmaker said his decision was informed by the everyday struggles of residents across the state, noting that leadership must be people-centred.

"But plans and records mean nothing if they do not connect to real people, the farmer who has abandoned his fields due to insecurity, the mother who cannot access timely healthcare, the unemployed graduate, the struggling widow, and the elderly left without support. These are the people I seek to serve," Ashiru stated.

He emphasised that security would be a top priority of his administration, expressing concern over increasing attacks in rural communities.

"For generations, Kwara has been known as the State of Harmony, but that harmony is under threat. Armed groups are invading rural communities, burning farms, displacing families, and disrupting livelihoods. Security is not just a policy pillar; it is the foundation for everything else," he further remarked.

On economic development, Ashiru highlighted the state's strategic position and existing industrial investments as a basis for growth.

"Kwara serves as a bridge between Nigeria's agricultural north and commercial south, yet we continue to export raw commodities without value addition.

"Investments such as Olam Cashew Processing Plant, KAM Steel, Dangote Flour Mills, and Tuvil Pharmaceuticals demonstrate what is possible. The task is to replicate such success across all local governments," he said.

Reflecting on his experience at the National Assembly, the senator said his legislative background had equipped him with the capacity for executive leadership.

"I have spent two terms ensuring that Kwara's share of federal resources is attracted and tracked. However, only a governor can guarantee execution. I believe I am prepared to take on that responsibility and be held accountable," he stressed.

The Kwara governorship aspirant described his policy document as a working framework open to contributions from stakeholders across sectors.

"This document is not a final manifesto; it is an invitation. Kwara has experts, professionals, and community voices whose input is critical. Every meaningful contribution will be considered," Ashiru assured.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and President Bola Tinubu, noting that their policies had laid a foundation for future development.

"This vision builds on existing progress. The state government has improved infrastructure and fiscal discipline, while federal reforms in electricity, rail, and security are opening new opportunities," he stated.

While reaffirming his commitment to the people of Kwara State, Ashiru urged residents to engage with his blueprint and hold him accountable.

"Examine this covenant, critique it, and help refine it. Together, we can build a better Kwara. I assure you that I will not fail you," he said.

Our correspondent reports that Ashiru's declaration signals the formal entry of another key contender into what is shaping up to be a keenly contested race ahead of the 2027 governorship election in the state.