Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has emerged as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for the 2027 general election following the party’s primary election held in Ibadan on Saturday.

Makinde secured the party’s ticket amid growing political realignments ahead of the next presidential race, positioning himself as a contender on a platform he says will prioritise economic recovery, institutional reforms and improved living standards for Nigerians.

In his acceptance speech, the governor said his decision to seek the nation’s highest office was inspired by a desire to restore hope and confidence in leadership.

"I stand before you today with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility as I accept the nomination to serve as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement for the Federal Republic of Nigeria," he said.

According to him, Nigeria possesses the resources and human capital needed to achieve sustainable economic growth through responsible leadership and practical reforms.

"I believe that we have the capacity to rebuild our economy through honesty, discipline and practical reforms—reforms that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians," he stated.

Makinde pledged to undertake far-reaching reforms in the oil and gas sector, insisting that citizens must derive greater benefits from the country's natural resources.

"Nigerians must benefit from the fact that we are an oil-producing nation, just as citizens of other resource-producing countries benefit from their natural wealth," he said.

The governor also called for the restructuring of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the organisation as a critical institution that must operate more efficiently and competitively.

"The NNPC must be transformed into a lean, efficient and commercially driven institution through proper corporate restructuring, stronger partnerships and institutional reforms," he added.

Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone of his economic agenda, Makinde said increased investment in production, processing, storage and transportation infrastructure would help unlock the sector's potential and create jobs across the country.

He further assured party members and Nigerians that his campaign would focus on competence, accountability and practical solutions rather than political rhetoric.

The governor's emergence received a boost from Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who, through his deputy, Mohammed Jatau, endorsed the candidacy and described Makinde as a leader capable of steering the country toward progress and prosperity.

"We are here on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State to support, endorse and celebrate the emergence of our dear distinguished brother, Oluwaseyi Makinde, as the Presidential Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement," Jatau said.

Earlier, APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, commended delegates and party officials for conducting what he described as a peaceful, transparent and credible primary election.

Makinde's nomination marks a significant step in the build-up to the 2027 presidential election as political parties continue to position their candidates and forge alliances ahead of the contest.