Mohammed Ajia Ibrahim, a renowned politician and philanthropist, has formally declared his intention to contest the Kwara Central Senatorial District seat at the National Assembly.
He pledged to leverage his practical experience, academic training, and leadership qualities to address insecurity and other governance challenges, as well as stimulate economic development in Kwara State and Nigeria.
Ibrahim made the declaration while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the convocation ceremony at the University of Abuja, shortly after he was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Policy and Strategic Studies.
Announcing his decision, Ibrahim said he was stepping forward in response to growing calls from stakeholders across Kwara State and out of a conviction that the state requires informed and strategic representation at the national level.
“I have listened carefully to the calls of our people, and after deep reflection, I am declaring my intention to contest for the Kwara Central Senatorial District seat. I am ready to serve,” he said.
He noted that his pursuit of advanced academic training was motivated by the need to better understand governance complexities and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“I am readily prepared to bring both practical and theoretical knowledge to bear in the affairs of not only Kwara State but Nigeria as a whole,” Ibrahim added.
Ibrahim, a retired security officer emphasized that Nigeria’s current realities demand leaders with policy depth, strategic thinking, and the capacity to translate ideas into measurable outcomes.
He stressed that his doctoral training has equipped him with critical competencies in policy formulation, national security strategy, and institutional reform, which he intends to apply if elected into the Senate.
“This is not just about earning a degree; it is about preparing for service. Nigeria needs leaders who understand the issues deeply and are ready to act decisively,” he said.
He further pledged to prioritise issues affecting Kwara Central, including security, economic development, youth empowerment, and inclusive governance, noting that effective representation must bridge the gap between policy and grassroots realities.
With his declaration, attention is expected to shift to party dynamics and stakeholder alignments as the race for the Red Chamber gradually gathers momentum.
Ibrahim recently defected from People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to All Progressive Congress (APC)