Businessman Lanre Jim-Kamal has formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race for Lagos State ahead of the 2027 general election. He declared his candidacy in Ikeja on Saturday before party leaders, supporters and political stakeholders, just days before the APC's May 21 primary nomination deadline. Jim-Kamal presented a five-point agenda, including a claimed $50 billion investment commitment from partners for Lagos. His plan includes free automated education and medical services, large-scale infrastructure expansion, urban restructuring and human capital development. He proposed decongesting Lagos by shifting economic and residential activity to outer districts, particularly Badagry. Jim-Kamal claimed investor partners are ready to launch a rice cultivation project in Badagry, aiming for local rice production within two years if elected. He also pledged monthly stipends of ₦100,000 for unemployed youths aged 18 to 29 and ₦150,000 for residents aged 60 and above, to be administered through local government systems. The youth stipend would be tied to job placements developed with private sector partners. Jim-Kamal described his agenda as policy-driven, not based on political promises. He expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's reforms, calling them impactful for Lagos and the South-West. He stated his political ambition stems from service to his community of origin, Isheri-Oke, now part of Ikosi-Isheri. Jim-Kamal, Chairman and CEO of Nigerturk Consortium Limited in Abuja, said he is ready to commit 70 per cent of his focus to public service. He raised concerns about the marginalisation of indigenous Awori communities, saying they make up significant parts of Lagos local governments and deserve greater political inclusion. On security, he proposed a state-wide controlled entry system at all access points. His entry comes as the APC's Governance Advisory Council has previously endorsed Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat as the party's preferred successor, setting up a potential internal contest.
Jim-Kamal claims $50 billion in investor backing but provided no verifiable details on the sources or terms of this funding. The promise of monthly cash payments to youths and elders relies on unproven revenue mechanisms. Lagos residents are left to wonder how these figures align with existing state fiscal realities. His Awori identity claim contrasts with his long-standing business base in Abuja, not Lagos.
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