Omar Bolaji Gambari, nephew of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has officially declared his intention to run for the 2027 governorship of Kwara State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Gambari is also the son of the late President Muhammadu Buhari’s former Chief of Staff.

Announcing his ambition at a press briefing in Ilorin, the state capital, Gambari said his decision is driven by a desire to serve the people of Kwara.
“I am here to declare my intention to contest the nomination for the governorship of Kwara State under the PDP,” he said.

Gambari outlined his agenda around what he calls the “five Ps” – People, Protection, Prosperity, Policies, and Partnership. He emphasised that the welfare of the people would be central to his administration, with a focus on healthcare, education, housing, and employment opportunities.

On security, Gambari advocated a holistic approach, combining strong enforcement with measures addressing underlying causes such as poverty and unemployment. “There are non-kinetic solutions and kinetic solutions. Non-kinetic solutions tackle root causes like poverty and hunger,” he said.

A farmer himself, Gambari stressed the importance of agriculture as a driver of economic growth, promising government support for large-scale farming, land clearing, and irrigation. “Agriculture can create jobs and increase income for residents. I know this because I farm,” he added.

He also proposed the creation of development commissions for Kwara North and South to ensure balanced regional development and address perceptions of marginalisation. In the health sector, Gambari pledged to expand health insurance coverage and introduce mobile clinics to improve rural access.

During a Q&A session, Gambari expressed confidence in the PDP’s prospects, declaring: “In Kwara State, PDP is alive, PDP is thriving, PDP is vibrant.”