NIWA Boss Bola Oyebamiji Declares 2026 Osun Gubernatorial Ambition on APC Platform

The Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, has formally thrown his hat into the ring for the 2026 Osun State governorship election. The former Osun State Commissioner for Finance declared his intention to seek the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a vibrant gathering at the Tinubu/Shettima campaign office in Osogbo, the state capital.

Surrounded by enthusiastic supporters, youth groups, and members of the Osun Progressives People’s Forum (OPPF), Oyebamiji made his ambition known, stressing that Osun needs visionary leadership that reflects the core values and progressive ideals of the APC. After the public declaration, he proceeded with his supporters to the APC state secretariat where he officially informed party executives of his intent to contest.

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In his address, Oyebamiji emphasized that his aspiration was not a personal mission but a collective responsibility to rescue Osun State from what he described as the failures and mismanagement of the current administration. “After consulting with leaders of the party about my aspiration to become the governor of the state in 2026, I come here today to declare my intention,” he stated to roaring applause.

“I have what it takes to be governor if my party, APC, gives me the guber ticket. I will not just contest, I will win by the support of everyone,” he declared confidently. “We have seen how this state is being mismanaged under the current government. They have totally deviated from the values that our party stands for.”

Oyebamiji expressed deep concern about the current state of affairs in Osun, accusing the ruling administration of poor governance and lack of direction. His speech conveyed a sense of urgency and determination to restore the state to the path of sustainable development, transparency, and economic revival.

He highlighted his extensive experience in both the public and private sectors as a critical asset to his candidacy. “I have garnered significant experience having served as Finance Commissioner in this state. It was that experience that convinced President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Marine to consider me for a national role. I am hereby declaring my aspiration to become the candidate of our party and to win in 2026,” he said.

Oyebamiji’s declaration was immediately met with strong endorsements from notable political figures and party stalwarts. Leading the pack was the former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye, who spoke on behalf of other APC heavyweights and described Oyebamiji as the right man to lead Osun at this critical time.

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According to Owoeye, “Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji is a tested and trusted leader. His integrity, administrative acumen, and understanding of governance make him a strong contender and the kind of governor Osun needs. We are confident that he will bring a new wave of development and accountability to the state.”

Others who endorsed Oyebamiji included Chief Sunday Akere, former Commissioner for Information under the Rauf Aregbesola administration, Raheem Tadese, a former Commissioner for Water Resources, and several aides of past governors. They echoed a unified message: Osun needs experienced leadership, and Oyebamiji fits that mold.

The declaration also marks a significant moment within the APC in Osun State, as it indicates the emergence of a high-profile contender ahead of the 2026 elections. Oyebamiji’s candidacy is expected to energize the party base and potentially bridge internal divides as the APC seeks to reclaim power in a state currently governed by the opposition.

Party supporters present at the event expressed their excitement and hope for a new beginning. Many believe that Oyebamiji’s background in finance and administration gives him an edge in addressing the fiscal challenges facing the state. Some youth leaders at the event praised his open-door leadership style and commitment to youth empowerment.

As the 2026 governorship race gradually gains momentum, Oyebamiji’s early declaration has set the tone for what is likely to be a keenly contested election. His blend of technocratic experience and grassroots engagement is expected to appeal to a wide demographic of voters who are seeking pragmatic leadership.

With months to go before the APC primaries, Oyebamiji has made a strategic move by being among the first aspirants to officially declare, thereby gaining early visibility and rallying support within the party. His next steps will involve intensive consultations, policy articulation, and consolidation of alliances as he seeks to emerge not just as the APC flagbearer but ultimately as the next governor of Osun State.