2027: No Shaking, Ogun Central APC Senatorial Ticket ‘Firmly in My Pocket’, Senator Salisu Reassures Supporters

ABEOKUTA – Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu has expressed strong confidence ahead of the 2027 general election, declaring that the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket for Ogun Central is “unconditionally undisputable and firmly inside my pocket.”

Senator Salisu’s reaction may not be unconnected to the ongoing rumour that the APC National leadership have substituted the Senator’s name with former Governor of Ogun State and former senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, as the party’s new flagbearer in Ogun Central.

However, Senator Salisu during a live radio programme in Abeokuta, reflected on his stewardship in the Senate and highlighted what he described as an unprecedented record of legislative achievements and constituency development across Ogun Central.

The lawmaker said his confidence stems from his performance in office, stressing that his administration has remained focused on delivering quality representation through impactful legislation, human capital development, digital transformation, infrastructure renewal, healthcare interventions, and community empowerment.

According to him, the overwhelming support he continues to enjoy from constituents and stakeholders is a reflection of the visible dividends of democracy that have reached every part of Ogun Central Senatorial District.

Speaking on his legislative achievements, Senator Salisu highlighted the National Internship and Unemployment Benefit Scheme Bill, which has passed second reading in the Senate, and the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, which has passed first reading. He also recalled sponsoring motions seeking the suspension of the proposed sale of Lafarge Cement Plc to foreign investors and another calling for an end to illegal market raids by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service.

In the area of education and digital empowerment, the Senator said his office has consistently invested in the future of young people through the annual sponsorship of over 1,000 JAMB candidates, distribution of educational materials to students, and digital skills training programmes with laptop empowerment for youths, artisans, teachers, women, graduates, and undergraduates.

He also listed the commissioning of a 250-capacity ICT Centre at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), the establishment of a new ICT centre at the Federal University of Medical Sciences, and the provision of ICT facilities and equipment to several secondary schools across Ogun Central as part of his efforts to position the district for the digital economy.

Senator Salisu further highlighted his healthcare and social intervention programmes, including medical outreach conducted in collaboration with Shalom Global Medical Mission, facilitation of Federal Government intervention programmes, including the ₦50,000 cash grant for eligible beneficiaries, and annual distribution of palliatives during Eid-el-Kabir and Christmas celebrations.

He equally emphasized his commitment to women empowerment through the Okowo Salisu Empowerment Programme, which has supported hundreds of market women with financial assistance, digital skills training, laptops, and business support aimed at improving their economic well-being.

On infrastructure development, the Senator pointed to the rehabilitation of the Camp–FUNAAB–Alabata Road, construction of the Akomoje–Mawuko–Opeji Road, installation of transformers in Isabo CDA and Fijabi CDA, as well as the construction of motorized solar-powered boreholes in Olomore Market, Onikolobo, Ekerin Village, Okungbolu Village, and Temidire Junction.

He also highlighted the impact of the Imole OMOYAYI Solar Streetlight Initiative, under which hundreds of solar-powered streetlights have been installed across communities in Ogun Central, including the NUJ Secretariat, Nigeria Labour Congress Secretariat, General Hospital Ijaye, Oba Odeleye Park, and several towns in Abeokuta, Ifo, Odeda, Agbado, Itori, Ibafo, and adjoining communities.

The Senator disclosed that numerous qualified constituents have also secured employment opportunities through his facilitation, although he declined to reveal their identities.

While thanking the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State and Ogun Central Senatorial District for their confidence and unwavering support, Senator Salisu urged residents of the district to remain united and avoid divisive politics.

Reflecting on his political journey, he said he has remained a committed progressive since 2007, recalling that he contested under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). He described himself as a grassroots politician whose humble upbringing in Abeokuta continues to shape his commitment to public service.

“I was born and raised here in Abeokuta. People know my humble beginnings. My father was a transporter known for his integrity, and I have remained consistent in progressive politics from the ACN days to the APC. My commitment has always been to serve the people,” he said.

Senator Salisu also used the opportunity to commend the APC governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), describing him as an experienced and committed progressive leader capable of sustaining Ogun State’s developmental trajectory.

He equally praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for what he described as his purposeful leadership and developmental strides across Ogun State, expressing confidence that the APC would remain united and victorious in the 2027 elections.

Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Senator Salisu pledged to continue pursuing people-oriented legislation and developmental initiatives that will further improve the socio-economic well-being of constituents.