Damilola James, the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, has expressed gratitude to God, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, party leaders and supporters following her emergence as the party’s running mate for the 2027 governorship election.
In a statement issued on her X handle on Wednesday, James described her nomination as a product of divine grace and a reflection of the opportunities available in Lagos State through inclusive and progressive politics.
She said her emergence serves as a reminder of the limitless opportunities available to citizens regardless of background.
“Today is a reminder of the endless possibilities that have defined our Lagos. It is my hope that my story continues to serve as a reminder that there is no ceiling to our greatness.
“As a woman of faith, I have no doubt that God is the architect of our lives, and for this reason, I thank God for His benevolence and grace, which continue to order my steps along this journey,” she stated.
James expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for their support and leadership, noting that the President’s stewardship has strengthened democratic values and placed the country on a firmer economic path.
“I convey my deepest gratitude to our president, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose exemplary leadership has deepened democratic values in our country and under whose leadership our nation is now on a stronger economic footing,” she said.
She also thanked Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, APC governorship candidate Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat and his wife, Oluremi Hamzat, for their support and encouragement.
The APC deputy governorship candidate acknowledged the contributions of party leaders, elders and members across Lagos State, describing their confidence in her as a privilege and responsibility.
“I extend my profound appreciation to the leadership of our party, the All Progressives Congress, for considering me worthy of this responsibility,” she said.
James further commended the Governance Advisory Council, led by Prince Tajudeen Olusi, for its continued guidance and support for the party’s activities in the state.
She extended her appreciation to traditional rulers, community leaders, grassroots mobilisers, women leaders, youth groups and party supporters across Lagos for their role in strengthening the APC and supporting her political journey.
Reflecting on her political career, James paid special tribute to the people of Badagry and Badagry West, where she previously served, describing their support as a major source of motivation.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the people of Badagry and especially Badagry West, whom I have previously had the privilege to serve. Their encouragement has remained a constant source of inspiration, strength and faith,” she said.
She dedicated her nomination to women, young people and aspiring leaders across the state, expressing hope that her emergence would encourage greater participation in governance and public service.
“This moment belongs to all of us, especially our young people, women and girls. I am grateful for your outpouring of support and look forward to meeting you all in the coming days,” she added.
James pledged to work closely with the APC governorship candidate, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, to sustain and expand the developmental achievements recorded in Lagos State over the years.
“It is a tremendous honour to fly the flag of our great party as deputy governorship candidate to our candidate, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat. Together, we shall work to consolidate the model of progressive governance that has distinguished Lagos as a centre of excellence and example to other subnationals,” she said.
Her nomination comes as political parties continue preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the APC positioning itself to retain control of Lagos State, which has remained under the leadership of progressive administrations since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
James also thanked residents of Lagos State for their support and offered prayers for continued peace, progress and prosperity in Lagos and across Nigeria.
