A group of Lagos-based professionals and innovators under the Lagos Progressive Initiative (PLI) has officially endorsed Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, for the 2027 governorship election. Established to drive progressive growth in Lagos, PLI seeks to leverage professional expertise to back policies that encourage sustainable development and innovative governance.
The endorsement was announced during a Lagos meeting last Sunday, where members deliberated on strategies for the state as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
PLI convener, Mr. Wole Oladunjoye, stated that the group supports Jandor because they believe Lagos can achieve more with fresh ideas and dynamic leadership. While acknowledging Lagos as one of Nigeria’s most progressive states, he noted that the city has yet to reach its full potential compared to leading global cities.
“Lagos is a highly progressive state, but there is room to build on what has already been achieved,” Oladunjoye said.
He explained that PLI mainly comprises middle- and working-class professionals, a segment often underrepresented in politics despite being informed and engaged. Many professionals, he said, avoid political participation because they see it as unsuitable or “dirty” compared to their career goals. While these individuals frequently discuss politics on social media, they often lack the means to influence governance directly, such as owning a permanent voter’s card (PVC).
PLI aims to bridge this gap by offering professionals a platform to contribute to policy development and implementation. Members can participate by attending policy discussions, helping draft proposals, joining outreach programs, and promoting voter registration and civic engagement.
“Professionals bring global standards and experience that can significantly improve local governance. Staying away from politics has slowed progress, and we encourage them to step up and help shape Lagos’s future,” Oladunjoye said.
He added that PLI is endorsing Jandor because he combines fresh ideas with the ability to execute them effectively. The convener described him as a young, energetic leader capable of uniting people and delivering results.
Mr. Seun Soyinka, Director of Communication and Strategy for the Lagos4Lagos Movement, highlighted why Adediran is a standout candidate for Lagos State. Soyinka noted that while many aspire to lead Lagos, few have the knowledge and experience necessary for the role.
“Leadership is not just about wanting power, it’s about understanding the responsibilities it entails. Jandor has consistently demonstrated this understanding,” Soyinka said.
He emphasized that Jandor has long studied Lagos politics, engaging with local communities and challenging conventional practices to promote positive change. While not opposed to the political establishment, Jandor seeks to address complacency and improve governance.
“The system requires political courage—the ability to challenge powerful interests without antagonism, to disagree respectfully, and to step forward even when the odds are stacked against you,” Soyinka explained.
Soyinka added that effective leadership demands skills, organization, negotiation, and the ability to form partnerships. Jandor, he said, recognizes that running Lagos requires practical systems and collaboration with traders, professionals, youths, and business leaders.
Jandor’s vision, according to Soyinka, is rooted in service, aiming to create a better Lagos for future generations. He encouraged professionals, referred to as Lagos’s “brainbox,” to remain engaged in political processes to enhance governance outcomes.
Questions from attendees addressed what would happen if Jandor did not secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket. PLI representatives reassured participants that he would support the party’s chosen candidate, citing his backing of APC candidates in previous local elections.
Organizers clarified that PLI is a long-term platform promoting Lagos-focused ideas and civic engagement, not solely linked to Jandor’s campaign. Regarding Jandor’s recent switch from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, organizers said they are engaging the public to explain his move and highlight his consistent work for Lagos.
The meeting concluded with a call for professionals and stakeholders to actively participate in politics, stressing that achieving the “Lagos of our dreams” requires collective involvement.
