The ruling party in Ogun State, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has named seasoned finance executive and chartered accountant Kudirat Adegunwa-Balogun as the running mate to Solomon Adeola (Yayi) ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The announcement was made on Sunday in Abeokuta by Dapo Abiodun during a strategic caucus meeting of the APC, following what party leaders described as extensive consultations across the state.
Seasoned Technocrat
At 51, Adegunwa-Balogun brings more than three decades of experience spanning finance, corporate governance, manufacturing, business transformation, and strategic leadership. Her emergence is widely viewed as a move by the APC to strengthen its economic and governance credentials ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director for Finance and Information Technology at Rite Foods Limited, Adegunwa-Balogun has played a significant role in the growth and expansion of one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous manufacturing companies. Her experience overseeing financial strategy, operational efficiency, and business growth has earned her recognition within corporate circles.
Beyond the boardroom, Adegunwa-Balogun is known for advocating women’s empowerment, youth development, entrepreneurship, and institutional excellence. Supporters within the APC say her selection reflects the party’s commitment to inclusive governance and greater participation of women in leadership positions.
Educational Background
Political observers note that her corporate background could appeal to voters seeking technocratic leadership and stronger economic management in Ogun State. Her emergence also adds gender diversity to the APC ticket as the party prepares for what is expected to be a highly competitive governorship contest.
With Adeola bringing extensive legislative experience and Adegunwa-Balogun contributing decades of private-sector expertise, the APC hopes the combination will strengthen its appeal across key demographics in the state.
As campaigns gradually take shape ahead of 2027, attention will likely focus on how the Adeola-Adegunwa-Balogun ticket plans to translate corporate governance experience and policy expertise into practical solutions for economic growth, job creation, infrastructure development, and improved public services in Ogun State.
Continuing a Legacy
In November 2018, after securing the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dapo Abiodun selected Noimot Salako-Oyedele as his running mate for the 2019 Ogun governorship election. According to the APC campaign organization, her selection followed consultations among party leaders, elders, and stakeholders, as well as a screening process involving several qualified candidates.
Salako-Oyedele, an engineer and real estate professional from Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, was considered a strategic choice because of her professional background, leadership experience, and political appeal within Ogun West, a key voting bloc in the state. Dapo Abiodun stated that he chose her based on her integrity, professional track record, and leadership capabilities.
