2027 Lagos Governorship Election: Profiles of Ambode, Abiru, Gbajabiamila and other potential candidates to Succeed Sanwo-Olu

As Nigeria looks toward the 2027 general elections, attention is already shifting to Lagos State, the country’s economic nerve centre and Africa’s largest megacity. With Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu set to complete his second and final term, the race to succeed him is quietly taking shape.

Lagos, with a GDP comparable to that of some African nations, requires a leader capable of managing complex challenges such as infrastructure deficits, traffic congestion, housing shortages, security, economic diversification, and social inclusion.

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Unsurprisingly, most of the early contenders are emerging from the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has governed the state since 1999 under the enduring influence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Below are seven prominent figures widely viewed as potential contenders, representing a mix of technocrats, career politicians, and political newcomers.

Senator Tokunbo Abiru: The Financial Strategist

Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru brings deep expertise in finance and public administration. A former Lagos State Commissioner for Finance and ex-CEO of Polaris Bank, Abiru played a key role in expanding Lagos’ revenue base and successfully issuing major bonds during the Fashola administration.

Currently representing Lagos East in the Senate, Abiru’s strength lies in fiscal discipline and economic management, critical assets for a state with a multi-trillion-naira budget.

However, critics argue that his relatively short time in elective politics may limit his grassroots appeal.

Akinwunmi Ambode: The Experienced Administrator

Former governor Akinwunmi Ambode remains one of the most experienced hands in Lagos politics. With nearly three decades in the civil service before becoming governor (2015–2019), Ambode oversaw major infrastructure and security initiatives, including rail projects and urban renewal efforts.

His deep understanding of Lagos’ bureaucracy and governance systems positions him as a continuity candidate.

However, his fallout with APC leadership during the 2019 primaries and subsequent low political profile may complicate any comeback bid.

Dr Obafemi Hamzat: The Technocratic Deputy

Serving as Deputy Governor since 2019, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat is widely seen as a natural successor within the current administration.

A technocrat with a background in engineering and information technology, Hamzat has been central to Lagos’ digital transformation, infrastructure planning, and COVID-19 response.

Backed by strong political lineage and administrative experience, Hamzat represents stability and policy continuity, especially in Lagos’ smart-city ambitions.

Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila: The National Heavyweight

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, brings unmatched national exposure. With two decades in federal politics, Gbajabiamila understands legislative strategy, federal-state relations, and power negotiations.

His proximity to the presidency could be a major advantage for Lagos in attracting federal support. While some question his age and whether he would prefer to remain at the national level, his political clout is undeniable.

Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor): The Grassroots Mobilizer

Popularly known as Jandor, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran rose to prominence through the Lagos4Lagos Movement. After contesting the 2023 governorship election under the PDP, he has since returned to the APC, maintaining strong grassroots structures.

Jandor appeals to younger voters and those seeking fresh leadership outside traditional political elites. His challenge remains limited experience in actual governance at the state level.

Seyi Tinubu: The Youthful Heir Apparent

Speculation continues to trail Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu. A businessman with growing philanthropic visibility, Seyi represents a potential generational shift in Lagos politics.

Supporters argue he embodies innovation and youth engagement, while critics raise concerns about experience and perceptions of political inheritance. His candidacy, if it materialises, would likely reshape the political landscape entirely.

Mudashiru Obasa: The Legislative Stalwart

Mudashiru Obasa, long-serving Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has deep roots in state politics. His legislative experience and influence within party structures make him a formidable insider.

However, past controversies, including impeachment attempts and allegations of misconduct, may weigh heavily on his chances in a statewide contest.

Lagos 2027: Ranking the Contenders by Experience and Exposure

Akinwunmi Ambode – Former governor with deep administrative experience

Femi Gbajabiamila – Extensive national legislative and executive exposure

Obafemi Hamzat – Deputy governor with strong technocratic credentials

Mudashiru Obasa – Veteran legislator with deep party roots

Tokunbo Abiru – Financial expert and senator

Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) – Grassroots mobilizer with youth appeal

Seyi Tinubu – High visibility, limited political experience

The 2027 Lagos governorship race will ultimately be shaped by APC primaries, President Tinubu’s endorsement, internal party dynamics, and voter sentiment amid economic pressures.

Whoever emerges will inherit the enormous responsibility of steering Lagos toward its ambition of becoming Africa’s leading innovation and economic hub.

As the political landscape evolves, one thing is certain: Lagos 2027 will be one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political contests.