- Westo Adekunle Adejumo | Premier World News
Former Senator (Prof.) Iyabo Obasanjo has reinforced her growing political stature ahead of the 2027 governorship race, as she featured prominently among top national dignitaries during the commissioning of the Gateway International Airport by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The high-profile event, which drew leading figures from across Nigeria’s political and economic landscape, saw Iyabo Obasanjo stand out as one of the few governorship aspirants with visible access and engagement at the highest levels of national leadership.
Notably, she appeared in the VIP line alongside the President and other dignitaries, emerging as the only woman in that exclusive lineup, a development widely interpreted as symbolic of her rising influence and recognition.
The commissioning ceremony attracted a distinguished gathering, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, business magnate Aliko Dangote, investor Femi Otedola, Senator Ned Nwoko, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, among other political leaders, technocrats, royal fathers, and key stakeholders.
Beyond her presence at the VIP level, Iyabo Obasanjo also mobilized a significant number of grassroots supporters to the venue, who turned out in an orderly and enthusiastic manner to welcome the President and his delegation, further highlighting her growing grassroots appeal and organizational strength.
Speaking after the event, Iyabo Obasanjo commended President Tinubu’s economic reform agenda and expressed confidence in its long-term impact.
“The President’s economic policy direction is strategic and forward-looking. These reforms, though challenging, will ultimately stabilize Nigeria’s economy and lay the foundation for sustainable growth”, she stated.
She described the Airport commissioning as both symbolic and strategic, noting that it reflects a broader commitment to infrastructure development and economic transformation.
Iyabo Obasanjo also praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for what she described as “giant strides” in infrastructure development, while acknowledging the contributions of previous administrations in laying the groundwork for the project.
“This achievement is a testament to continuity in governance. It shows what is possible when leadership builds on existing foundations for the collective good”, she added.
Reaffirming her political vision, she assured supporters and residents of Ogun State of her commitment to transparency, accountability, and people-oriented governance.
“I will not compromise the resources of Ogun State for personal gain. Every resource must serve the people and drive inclusive development”, she said.
She further appreciated her supporters for their discipline and peaceful conduct during the President’s visit, urging them to sustain their commitment to responsible civic engagement.
Premier World News reports that her visibility at such a high-level national event, combined with her grassroots mobilization efforts, signals a strategic balance between elite political access and popular support, positioning her as one of the more deliberate and process-driven aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.
