Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally endorsed Obafemi Hamzat as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State for the 2027 election.

The endorsement followed a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with members of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC), led by Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, and attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed that Tinubu gave his backing during the meeting, effectively sealing Hamzat’s position as the party’s consensus candidate.

Speaking after the meeting, Hamzat said the GAC delegation presented him to the President, who gave his blessing to both him and the council’s decision.

“These are fathers and leaders… I’m truly excited they brought me to meet Mr President, who has now blessed both us and the GAC’s decision,” he said.

On his readiness, the deputy governor acknowledged the weight of the responsibility but expressed confidence in his experience in government.

“Nobody is ever fully ready because the assignment is audacious… Having served as Deputy Governor, I understand the system and how things work,” he added.

The endorsement comes amid a series of coordinated moves within the Lagos APC. Sanwo-Olu had earlier declared Hamzat his preferred successor, describing him as the “best man for the job,” while the GAC subsequently adopted him as its consensus candidate and resolved to purchase his ₦50 million nomination form.

Reacting to dissenting voices, including APC chieftain Samuel Ajose, Olusi dismissed objections, noting that consensus decisions are reached through consultation among party leaders.

The Villa meeting was attended by key figures including Femi Gbajabiamila, Tokunbo Abiru, and Musiliu Obanikoro.

With endorsements from the President, the state governor, and the GAC, Hamzat’s emergence as the APC flagbearer for the 2027 Lagos governorship race appears firmly established, even as political activities continue to build ahead of the election.