By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hajia Musliat Yetunde Bello, has formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 election in Kwara State.

Yetunde said she aims to build on the achievements of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, while promoting greater inclusion of women and expanding vocational opportunities across the state.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin, she described her ambition as a commitment to public service and an effort to encourage greater participation of women in leadership and economic development.

“I want to be an example for young girls. Let them know that if I can be governor, they can be governor too,” she said.

She commended the current administration for progress in sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, youth development, and women participation, noting that these efforts have contributed to the state’s development.

“I stand before you not just as an aspirant to the office of governor, but as someone committed to continuing the developmental journey our party has established in Kwara,” Yetunde stated.

The aspirant identified gender inclusion as a key motivation for her bid, noting that initiatives within the party have encouraged greater participation by women.

“Our party has demonstrated commitment to women participation. This has inspired me to step forward and offer myself for service,” she added.

Beyond continuity, Yetunde outlined plans to strengthen reforms in key sectors, with education as a priority. She pledged to improve funding and access to ensure broader educational opportunities.

“The future of our state depends on the quality of education we provide. We will work to ensure that more children have access to quality education from basic to tertiary level,” she said.

On healthcare, she proposed expanding insurance coverage and improving primary healthcare services, particularly for women and children.

She also pledged to sustain infrastructure development, enhance security through collaboration among agencies, and support agriculture with improved access to modern inputs.

In addition, Yetunde said her administration would explore alternative energy solutions such as solar power and expand access to clean water through improved infrastructure.

To address unemployment, she proposed structured vocational training programmes for youths and women, including initiatives aimed at developing practical and technical skills.

“If a man can be a mechanic, why can’t a woman do the same? It is about knowledge and skills, and women are capable,” she said.

She emphasised the need to encourage women to participate in technical and vocational fields, noting their potential to contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

“When women are given the opportunity, they have shown the capacity to excel,” she added.

Reaffirming her readiness to contest, Yetunde called on party members and residents of the state to support her aspiration, describing it as an opportunity to promote inclusive leadership.

“I am ready to serve the people of Kwara. I urge everyone to support this vision,” she said.