The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has said many politicians seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election lack the vision needed to transform Nigeria and move the country forward.
Hamzat made the remarks on Sunday while receiving members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen’s Forum during their visit to major infrastructure projects in Lagos State. The forum members also paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Ikoyi.
The deputy governor, who is also the APC governorship candidate for the 2027 Lagos governorship election, defended President Tinubu’s leadership style and development agenda, insisting that the President’s long-term vision continues to shape major infrastructure projects across the country.
His comments come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with opposition politicians and some presidential hopefuls stepping up criticisms of the Tinubu administration over the economy, insecurity and the rising cost of living.
Reacting to the criticisms, Hamzat argued that leadership requires more than making promises, saying many of those aspiring to lead Nigeria do not possess the foresight required to bring about meaningful national development.
“Many who want to lead do not have vision. We are grateful to have leaders with foresight. Many people could not see what Asiwaju Tinubu envisioned years ago,” he said.
According to him, Tinubu has consistently demonstrated the ability to think ahead and initiate policies that may not produce immediate results but would benefit future generations.
Hamzat also praised the President’s leadership style, describing him as someone who values innovation, encourages healthy debate and gives room for good ideas regardless of where they come from.
He said Tinubu does not allow personal interests or hierarchy to stand in the way of good governance, adding that the President is willing to adopt any idea capable of delivering better results for the country.
“Before the President, nobody is too small. Once your idea is better, it takes precedence, even above the President’s own. He gives room for ideas to grow,” Hamzat said.
The deputy governor noted that one of Tinubu’s strengths is his willingness to establish specialised agencies instead of relying entirely on conventional ministries to implement government policies.
According to him, such institutions have proved more effective in handling specific development programmes and delivering results.
Hamzat said many of the major projects currently transforming Lagos and other parts of Nigeria were conceived through careful planning and long-term thinking.
He listed the Lagos rail transport system, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Eko Atlantic City, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the proposed Badagry-Sokoto Highway among projects that reflect Tinubu’s vision for national development.
He maintained that the projects were designed not only to improve transportation but also to stimulate industrial growth, create jobs and strengthen economic activities across different parts of the country.
“These projects are not merely for transportation; they are meant to industrialise the country and connect Nigerians,” he said.
Hamzat explained that better road and rail networks would reduce the cost of moving goods and services, encourage trade between states and improve regional integration.
He added that improved infrastructure would also help attract businesses, increase investments and create more employment opportunities for Nigerians.
According to him, Tinubu’s development agenda is aimed at laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth rather than pursuing short-term political gains.
The deputy governor further argued that the President’s ability to attract both local and foreign investors is a result of his consistent economic policies and commitment to creating an environment favourable for business.
He said investors are more willing to commit funds where governments demonstrate policy consistency and invest in critical infrastructure.
Hamzat also used the occasion to advise APC leaders across the country to remain united and strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
He urged members of the APC State Chairmen’s Forum to maintain cordial working relationships with governors in their respective states, saying collaboration within the party would help improve governance and enhance the party’s electoral chances.
“It is important that we continue to strengthen our party,” he said.
The deputy governor also called on elected public office holders to appreciate the critical role political parties play in sustaining democracy.
According to him, political parties provide the platform through which leaders emerge and should therefore be respected and strengthened.
He urged politicians to draw lessons from established democracies around the world, where political parties remain central to governance and policy implementation.
“We must ensure that every elected official understands the importance and value of the party,” Hamzat said.
He added that despite the country’s challenges, leaders must remain committed to nation-building and work together to improve the lives of Nigerians.
“As a nation, we must continue working towards building this country. We cannot afford to fail our people,” he said.
President Tinubu, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, has repeatedly defended his administration’s economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, saying the measures are necessary to place Nigeria’s economy on a stronger footing.
While supporters of the administration argue that the reforms will deliver long-term benefits, critics have continued to express concerns over inflation, the high cost of living and the economic hardship experienced by many Nigerians.
With less than a year before political campaigns for the 2027 general election are expected to intensify, statements by leading figures within the ruling APC are likely to shape the political debate as parties position themselves for another fiercely contested presidential election.