In a frank, no-holds-barred phone conversation with Femi Ogunshola, the 2027 APC governorship candidate and Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Salihu Yakubu-Danladi speaks candidly about his vision for Kwara,
His blueprint for governance
The reconciliation within the APC,
The role of elders in politics, youth inclusion,
And why he believes the future of the state depends on unity rather than division.
For Yakubu-Danladi, the 2027 governorship race is not merely about occupying an office.
He describes it as an opportunity to consolidate progress, deepen development, and prepare Kwara for a future driven by innovation, security, inclusion, and human capital development.
“Our mission is simple,” he says.
“To build on what has already been achieved and ensure that every community feels the impact of good governance.”
Asked what would define his administration if elected governor, Yakubu-Danladi is unequivocal.
“My administration will focus on continuity where continuity is needed and innovation where improvement is required.
“We will strengthen infrastructure, invest aggressively in human capital development and make security one of our highest priorities.”
According to him, roads, schools, healthcare facilities, water projects and rural development will remain central to his agenda, but he insists that the true wealth of any state lies in its people.
“Without investing in human capital, no society can attain sustainable development. We must equip our young people with quality education, vocational skills, entrepreneurship opportunities and access to technology.
“Our women must be empowered. Our farmers must receive greater support. Small businesses must thrive. Every local government must feel included in the development agenda.”
He says his vision is to build a government that works for everyone regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background or religious belief.
“Kwara belongs to all of us. Every part of the state deserves equal attention and equal opportunity.
“Our goal is to create an environment where businesses can grow, investors can have confidence, communities are secure and every child has the opportunity to succeed.”
He adds that security remains the foundation upon which every other development rests.
“Without security, there can be no meaningful investment, no economic growth and no lasting peace.
“We will continue to collaborate with security agencies, strengthen community-based security initiatives and ensure that our people can live and work without fear.”
Following the APC governorship primary, Yakubu-Danladi extends what he describes as a sincere appeal to party members who may feel disappointed by the outcome.
“I plead with everyone to come back home. You do not destroy your home; you build it.”
He stresses that internal contests are natural in every democratic process.
“In every election, there will always be a winner and there will be those who do not emerge victorious. But in the APC, we do not see anyone as a loser. We are one family.”
According to him, the strength of the APC lies in its national spread, internal structure and capacity to accommodate everyone.
“The APC is a broad political family from the grassroots to the national level. There is room for everyone to contribute. I appeal for patience, understanding and unity because together we are stronger.”
He expresses confidence that reconciliation efforts will succeed.
“I have every assurance that our members will come together because we understand ourselves and we understand what is at stake.”
On whether reconciliation will yield the desired result, Yakubu-Danladi says the outcome will be made public in no time.
“The party constituted a reconciliation committee and I have personally reached out to many stakeholders privately and independently.”
He explains that the reconciliation effort extends beyond the governorship primary.
“It is not only about the governorship ticket. It also involves the Senate, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly elections because concerns exist across different levels.”
He commends the committee for what he describes as its diligent work.
“They have done an excellent job. I believe the necessary decisions will be taken to strengthen our unity.”
Responding to allegations that he plans to sideline senior figures and elders within the party, Yakubu-Danladi dismisses the claim entirely.
“I have challenged anyone who has a video or audio recording of me saying all elders should be retired to produce it.”
He says his political philosophy is rooted in respect for experience and wisdom.
“Our elders are our fathers. My own father lived beyond 90 years, and I benefited immensely from his wisdom.”
He recalls that many of today’s party elders were political associates of his late father and deserve respect for their contributions.
“We need the experience, guidance and wisdom of our elders if we truly want to move Kwara forward.”
He adds that leadership is a continuous cycle.
“One day I too will become an elder. Whatever example we set today is the example future generations will follow. That is why respect must remain mutual.
Yakubu-Danladi also rejects allegations that appointments have already been shared among a select group.
“If anyone has evidence, let them present it.”
He argues that such claims are products of political speculation.
“People sometimes sit comfortably in their own spaces and spread misinformation simply to impress others. Facts should always come before accusations.”
Asked whether he is concerned about the PDP and its governorship candidate, Engr Kale Kawu, Yakubu-Danladi maintains that he remains focused on his own campaign and his party’s preparations.
He argues that the APC’s priority is strengthening its grassroots support and presenting its achievements and vision to the people of Kwara ahead of the election.
For Yakubu-Danladi, perhaps the most defining feature of his emergence is what it represents for young people across Kwara and Nigeria.
“My candidacy sends a powerful message that there is hope for the younger generation.”
He believes leadership should continue opening doors for capable young Nigerians.
“If tomorrow the governorship rotates to another district, any qualified young person should be able to aspire to the office. We must continue creating opportunities instead of remaining in the same old order.”
He also credits Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for creating opportunities for young leaders within government.
“The Governor has given many young people opportunities to serve and contribute. It is our responsibility to justify that confidence and ensure we do not disappoint.”
He points to the increasing number of youthful candidates within the APC as evidence of changing times.
“Many of our candidates for the House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly are young people. We also have a youthful governor. This shows that our generation is being entrusted with leadership.”
His closing message is both reflective and emphatic.
“As young leaders, we have a responsibility to succeed. We must prove that when opportunities are given to the youth, we can deliver with integrity, competence and results. We must not fail.”
As the political landscape gradually shifts toward 2027, Yakubu-Danladi is positioning himself as a candidate who wants continuity without complacency, development without division, and leadership that bridges generations.
Whether through reconciliation, youth empowerment, infrastructure, security or human capital development, he insists that his vision is centred on one goal: building a united, prosperous and inclusive Kwara where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
