Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde, has criticised the Federal Government’s policies, saying Nigeria’s major challenge is not a lack of resources but a shortage of ideas among its leaders.

Makinde spoke in Abuja during the unveiling of his Reset Agenda manifesto ahead of the January 16, 2027 presidential election.

“Nigeria is rich in natural resources; Nigeria is rich in human resources, but our leaders are poor in ideas,” he said.

The governor identified the gap between macroeconomic reforms and the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians as one of the country’s major challenges.

“For us, macroeconomic reforms must translate into improvements in people’s lives,” he said, questioning the value of economic stability if it does not improve citizens’ welfare.

On the economy, Makinde proposed channelling crude oil earnings above the national budget benchmark into improved welfare for Nigerians. He also promised to set measurable performance targets within his first 100 days in office and ensure accountability in government spending.

On electricity, he urged Nigerians to hold the Federal Government accountable for its promise of improved power supply, arguing that the law granting states authority over electricity did not absolve the federal government of its responsibility to address challenges in generation and distribution.

Makinde said his ambition was driven by the need to tackle Nigeria’s challenges and restore the vision of its founding fathers. He pledged to prioritise improved living conditions, particularly in rural communities, expand opportunities regardless of tribe or religion, and strengthen public institutions.

“We must develop people’s abilities and expand their access to opportunities. We must also have institutions that work,” he added.

On political reforms, Makinde proposed that presidential candidates should secure more than half of the votes cast to win, arguing that the requirement would encourage broader political cooperation.

He also called for a transitional government of national unity and a national conference to discuss the country’s challenges and agree on a common direction.

His running mate, Alhaji Lawal Musa Daura, a former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), criticised what he described as the suppression of opposition parties, saying a level playing field was essential to sustaining democracy.

In his welcome address, APM National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, said the 2027 election was about the future of millions of Nigerians seeking to reset the country, rather than the interest of the party alone.

He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and ensure peaceful and credible elections, warning that electoral fraud was the worst form of banditry.