Meet Damilola Sonayon‑James, APC’s 41‑Year‑Old Newly Unveiled Lagos Deputy Governorship Candidate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has unveiled Damilola Sonayon‑James, a 41‑year‑old political figure, as its deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election. Her nomination on Saturday marks a strategic choice by the party as it finalises its ticket for one of Nigeria’s most politically significant races.

Sonayon‑James, who serves as State Deputy Woman Leader of the APC in Lagos, brings political experience and grassroots engagement to her new role. Her selection followed internal consultations among APC stakeholders ahead of the party’s campaign launch later this year.

Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial and population hub, has been a stronghold of the APC, and the choice of Sonayon‑James is seen as part of a broader effort to balance experience with youthful energy on the party’s ticket.

Profile of the APC’s Deputy Pick

Damilola Sonayon‑James has been active in Lagos State politics and party structures for years. She rose through the APC’s grassroots ranks and has been involved in community mobilization, advocacy for women’s political participation, and initiatives aimed at youth engagement and social development.

Her political career includes roles that involve community outreach and public service, positioning her as both a party leader and a voice for civic engagement across Lagos’s diverse local communities.

Political Significance of Her Nomination

Political analysts say Sonayon‑James’s emergence as a deputy governorship candidate reflects the APC’s ongoing efforts to broaden its appeal across key demographic groups, including women and young voters. In a state where more than half the population is under 35, injecting new leadership figures into mainstream tickets is considered a strategic move.

Some commentators have also noted that her background in both political organization and grassroots mobilization could help strengthen the party’s link with voters outside traditional power bases.

Her nomination also comes at a time when Lagos politics has seen increased competition, not just within the APC but from rival parties seeking to make inroads in urban constituencies.

Looking Ahead to the 2027 Election

With Sonayon‑James joining the ticket alongside the APC governorship nominee, the campaign is expected to focus on key issues such as infrastructure development, job creation, education, and improving public services across the state.

The APC’s choice signals confidence in its blend of experienced leadership and emerging political voices as it prepares to contest the 2027 election in Nigeria’s most economically dynamic state. Analysts say the party will be closely watched on how it leverages its ticket to appeal to both long‑standing supporters and undecided voters.