Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has formally declared his intention to contest the 2026 Osun State governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Oyebamiji, a seasoned administrator with a rich background in both public and private sectors, made his declaration at the APC state secretariat in Osogbo, Osun State capital, on Tuesday. His announcement, accompanied by a large contingent of supporters and prominent figures from the previous administration of ex-governor Adegboyega Oyetola, including the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Timothy Owoeye, marks a significant development in the political landscape of Osun State. Oyebamiji’s entry into the race adds another dimension to the already complex dynamics within the APC as the party navigates its post-election restructuring and prepares for the next electoral cycle.
Oyebamiji’s declaration strategically emphasizes his competency and experience as key attributes that position him as a suitable candidate for the governorship. Having served as the Commissioner for Finance under both ex-governors Rauf Aregbesola and Adegboyega Oyetola, he brings a wealth of experience in financial management and governance to the table. This experience, coupled with his current role as NIWA MD, provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the state’s economic landscape and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. He positions himself as a candidate capable of leading the state towards sustainable growth and development, drawing on his experience in managing public funds and navigating the complexities of bureaucratic processes.
The aspirant strategically aligned himself with the call for power rotation to Osun West Senatorial District, acknowledging the growing sentiment for equitable representation in the state’s political leadership. While emphasizing his personal competence as transcending senatorial considerations, he nonetheless recognized the validity of the agitation by the West Senatorial District for the governorship ticket. This nuanced approach aims to resonate with a broader base of the electorate, appealing to those who advocate for regional balance while also highlighting his individual capabilities as the primary factor for consideration. By acknowledging the regional dynamics, he seeks to portray himself as a unifying figure capable of bridging divides within the party and the state.
Oyebamiji’s formal presentation of his intention to the party leadership underscores his respect for party structure and his commitment to working within established frameworks. His visit to the APC secretariat, he explained, was not only to announce his candidacy but also to seek the blessings of the party leadership and officially communicate his interest in contesting the governorship. This act of deference signifies his understanding of internal party dynamics and his willingness to collaborate with the established hierarchy. It also serves as a strategic move to garner the support of key stakeholders within the party, which will be crucial in navigating the primary elections and securing the party’s nomination.
The candidate emphasized his extensive experience in public service, highlighting his 15-year involvement in government and close working relationship with the highest echelons of the APC leadership. This prolonged engagement, he posited, has provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of government and the complexities of policy formulation and implementation. He further underscored his 28-year experience in the private sector, presenting himself as a well-rounded individual with a comprehensive understanding of both public and private sector dynamics. This combined experience, he argued, makes him uniquely qualified to lead the state and drive economic growth and development through effective public-private partnerships and investment promotion.
In essence, Bola Oyebamiji’s declaration of intent for the 2026 Osun governorship race presents him as a seasoned administrator with a deep understanding of governance, a commitment to party structures, and a nuanced approach to addressing regional political dynamics. He leverages his combined public and private sector experience to project himself as a competent and capable leader ready to steer Osun State towards a prosperous future. His formal engagement with the party leadership signals a strategic approach to navigating the complexities of internal party politics and securing the necessary support to emerge as the APC’s flagbearer in the 2026 gubernatorial election. His campaign, as it unfolds, will likely focus on his experience, competence, and ability to unite the party and deliver good governance to the people of Osun State.
