Former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, has declared that his long-standing ambition to become governor of Lagos State is no longer on his agenda, saying he is now focused on mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Obanikoro made the disclosure during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, hosted by Channels Television journalist Seun Okinbaloye, where he reflected on his political career and future aspirations.
Asked whether he still harboured ambitions of governing Lagos State, the former senator responded that the idea was “completely off the table.”
According to him, his priorities have shifted from seeking elective office to supporting and guiding younger Nigerians who aspire to leadership roles.
Obanikoro, who previously represented Lagos Central Senatorial District and served as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, said he believes he can make a greater contribution by sharing his experience and helping to develop future leaders rather than pursuing another political office.
The former minister has contested for the Lagos State governorship in the past. He was a governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2007 elections before later joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he has remained active in party affairs.
In recent weeks, Obanikoro was appointed Director-General of the Lagos State Governorship Campaign Council for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, a role he said reflects his continued commitment to public service and the party’s electoral success rather than any personal governorship ambition.
Speaking on the podcast, Obanikoro emphasised that his current goal is to invest in younger generations by offering mentorship and encouraging capable individuals to take up leadership responsibilities.
His remarks come amid growing political realignments and early preparations by political parties for the 2027 general elections, with several politicians declaring or ruling out ambitions for key elective offices across the country.
