Ex-Kwara APC chair declares gov bid

Former chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Kwara State, Bashir Bolarinwa, said on Sunday in Ilorin that he has formally declared his intention to contest the governorship election, explaining how his background, experience, and training have prepared him for the role and why he believes he can handle the state’s challenges.

He made this known after submitting his letter of intent to the party, stating that his decision is rooted in years of public service across different levels of government. He said his involvement in politics started at the grassroots and grew through legislative and national assignments, giving him a broad understanding of governance and public administration.

Bolarinwa pointed to his academic training, which includes advanced studies in international relations, as part of what shaped his approach to leadership and policymaking. He added that his exposure to both local and global issues has given him the ability to analyse problems and develop workable solutions for the state.

He also spoke about his political journey, noting that he had served as a councillor, chairman of a local government in Lagos, and later as a member of the House of Representatives. According to him, these roles provided him with practical knowledge of how government works and how policies affect citizens at different levels.

The aspirant recalled his time as the state chairman of the APC, when he led the party during a major political shift that resulted in a wide victory during the 2019 general elections. He said that experience showed his ability to organise, mobilise, and manage party structures effectively.

He further mentioned his role as chairman of the governing board of the National Broadcasting Commission, where he contributed to strengthening regulatory processes and improving standards in the media sector.

Bolarinwa explained that his ambition is driven by a desire to build on the current administration’s work and push the state toward more growth and stability. He said he understands the needs of the people and areas that require urgent attention, adding that his focus would be on improving governance and development outcomes.

He also expressed confidence that the APC would remain in power in the state, urging party members and stakeholders to stay united and work toward a future built on fairness, peace, and inclusive progress.