A coalition of support groups within the All Progressives Congress has endorsed former senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe for the 2027 governorship election in Kwara State, describing him as the most competent aspirant to sustain and deepen governance in the state.

The endorsement was announced at a press conference in Ilorin on Tuesday by the coalition's spokesperson, Adigun Adebowale, who said the decision followed extensive consultations across party structures and grassroots stakeholders.

Oloriegbe, who represented Kwara Central Senatorial District between 2019 and 2023, rose to prominence after defeating former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, in the 2019 general elections, a victory widely seen as part of the political wave that reshaped Kwara's power dynamics.

Adebowale said the coalition, comprising party faithful, professionals, youth groups and grassroots mobilisers across the three senatorial districts, was convinced that Oloriegbe possesses the experience and capacity required to lead the state at a critical transition period.

"Kwara is at a defining moment. We need a leader who not only understands governance but has demonstrated competence in delivering results. Senator Oloriegbe has shown that capacity both at the state and national levels," he said.

The coalition, whilst highlighting Oloriegbe's contributions during his time in the Senate, particularly in the health sector, where he chaired key committees and championed reforms aimed at expanding access to healthcare, noted that the former lawmaker played a pivotal role in advancing health insurance coverage and strengthening institutional frameworks within Nigeria's healthcare system.

They also referenced his facilitation of the establishment of a Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Budo-Egba, describing it as a major intervention in addressing mental health challenges in the region.

"His efforts in the health sector are not just policies on paper; they are tangible interventions that have improved lives," Adebowale said.

Beyond healthcare, the coalition said Oloriegbe facilitated over 350 federal job placements for Kwara indigenes, which it described as a deliberate effort to tackle youth unemployment.

"In a time when many young people are struggling to find opportunities, these interventions have provided relief and hope," he insisted.

The group maintained that such initiatives demonstrated the former senator's commitment to inclusive development and grassroots empowerment.

The coalition also argued that Oloriegbe is well-positioned to consolidate on the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, particularly in areas such as fiscal discipline, infrastructure development and institutional reforms.

"We are not looking for disruption; we are looking for continuity with Improvement. The progress made in recent years must not be reversed," he said.

Whilst declaring its support, the coalition further emphasised that its endorsement was not intended to undermine other aspirants within the party, instead, it urged APC leaders at both state and national levels to prioritise competence, experience and capacity in selecting the party's governorship candidate.

Our correspondent reports that the endorsement comes amid growing political permutations within the APC ahead of the 2027 election, with several aspirants reportedly positioning for the party's ticket.

Analysts say the race is likely to be shaped by a combination of factors, including internal party dynamics, zoning considerations, and the influence of key political stakeholders.

Oloriegbe's entry into the contest is expected to add another layer to what is already shaping up as a competitive race within the ruling party.