The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Interfaith Affairs, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, yesterday hosted a delegation of the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN), who formally declared their support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential aspiration and the governorship ambition of Chief Akinwale Adekanmbi under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (APM).
The brief meeting, which brought together religious leaders, community stakeholders, political mobilizers and members of the socio-political advocacy group, was described by participants as a strategic convergence geared towards promoting inclusive leadership, national unity and people-oriented governance.
Addressing the delegation, Reverend Ibikunle expressed appreciation to the group for what he described as a demonstration of confidence in visionary leadership and responsible governance.
He emphasized the need for Nigerians to remain united regardless of religious or ethnic differences, noting that national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
The governor’s aide further stressed the importance of citizen participation in the democratic process, urging stakeholders to remain committed to promoting issue-based politics rather than divisive campaigns capable of undermining national cohesion.
According to him, Governor Makinde’s administration has consistently prioritized inclusiveness, social justice and equitable development, creating opportunities for all segments of society irrespective of faith or background.
“The vision of a Nigeria can only be achieved when citizens rally around leaders who have demonstrated sincerity of purpose, accountability and commitment to public service.
“The future of our nation depends on collective efforts geared towards nation-building and sustainable development,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the leadership of IBBN said their endorsement of Governor Makinde was based on what they described as his proven record of performance, visionary leadership, commitment to infrastructural development, educational reforms, economic growth and religious harmony in Oyo State.
According to the group, Nigeria is in dire need of a leader capable of transcending ethnic, religious and political divides, stressing that Governor Makinde has demonstrated the qualities required to provide such leadership at the national level.
The group’s National Coordinator noted that the governor’s administration has become a reference point in governance and accountability, adding that his achievements in infrastructure renewal, security enhancement, agribusiness development and social inclusion have continued to attract admiration across the country.
“We have carefully observed the political developments across Nigeria over the years and have come to the conclusion that Governor Seyi Makinde possesses the competence, character, courage and capacity required to reposition the country.
“His leadership style has inspired wide confidence among the people and rekindled hope in democratic governance.
“Our decision is not driven by sentiments but by verifiable achievements. We believe Nigeria deserves a leader with a track record of delivering results, and Governor Makinde has consistently demonstrated that capacity,” the group stated.
The organization also declared its support for the governorship aspiration of Chief Bimbo Adekanmbi, describing him as a worthy successor capable of sustaining the developmental strides currently being witnessed in Oyo State.
IBBN members commended Adekanmbi’s contributions to grassroots mobilization, youth empowerment, community development and political inclusiveness while serving as a Commissioner for Finance in the state, noting that his understanding of governance and public administration places him in a strategic position to consolidate on existing gains.
They maintained that continuity of purposeful governance remains critical to sustaining the state’s developmental momentum and ensuring that ongoing projects and reforms are not abandoned.
Several speakers at the event highlighted what they described as the governor’s outstanding achievements in road infrastructure, healthcare delivery, education, security collaboration and economic expansion, insisting that such accomplishments have strengthened public confidence in his leadership credentials.
The meeting also witnessed goodwill messages from religious leaders and community representatives who advocated greater collaboration among political actors, civil society organizations and faith-based groups in promoting national unity and democratic stability.
Participants unanimously resolved to embark on grassroots sensitization campaigns across communities with a view to mobilizing support for the presidential aspiration of Governor Makinde and the governorship ambition of Adekanmbi.