SMA Movement Launches Renewed Hope 2.0 Campaign as Samuel Ajose Declares for Lagos Governorship

 

By oluwaseyi fadoro 

The SMA Movement on Wednesday formally launched the “Renewed Hope 2.0” mobilisation campaign in support of the reelection of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as its convener, Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, declared his intention to seek the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State.

The event, held at the Police College Field, brought together party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, youth groups, women leaders and party faithful from across Lagos State.

Delivering the welcome address, 

Director-General of the SMA Movement, Biodun Coker, described the gathering as a historic moment aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation for President Tinubu’s reelection while activating the political structure of the movement across Lagos.

Coker announced that the event marked the official commencement of a door-to-door mobilisation campaign across all 376 wards and 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas in the state.

According to him, the initiative represents a wonderful coordinated effort to deepen grassroots engagement and consolidate support for the APC ahead of future elections.

He praised the leadership of Ajose and the SMA Movement for initiating what he described as a strategic mobilisation effort, noting that Lagos, as the political base of President Tinubu, must lead the charge in delivering strong electoral support.

Coker also referenced global economic uncertainties and tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel and the United States, stating that Nigeria’s recent policy decisions had positioned the country for greater energy independence.

He said the removal of fuel subsidy by President Tinubu had created the enabling environment for increased domestic refining capacity, including investments such as the Dangote Refinery, which he said would reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.

“Because of these strategic decisions, Nigeria is gradually reducing its dependence on imported petroleum products and building a more resilient energy future,” Coker said.

He also acknowledged that the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in Lagos did not meet the expectations of the ruling party, attributing the result partly to complacency among party members.

However, he assured party supporters that the new mobilisation drive would be massive, coordinated and strategic.

“

Our strategy is clear, our mission is defined, and our determination is unwavering,” he said.

In his declaration speech, Ajose officially announced his intention to seek the governorship ticket of the APC in Lagos State.

He described his aspiration as a continuation of the progressive legacy that has shaped Lagos for decades, while promising to bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to governance.

Ajose said his vision for Lagos aligns with the “

Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu and aims to accelerate development while improving the quality of life for residents.

“I declare my intention to seek the gubernatorial ticket of our great party, the APC, and ultimately to serve as the next Governor of Lagos State,” he said.

Outlining his policy priorities, Ajose identified housing, transportation, education and healthcare as the four cardinal pillars of his agenda.

On housing, he promised to pursue affordable and sustainable housing solutions through public-private partnerships, innovative financing models and improved urban planning.

He also pledged to expand Lagos’ multi-modal transportation system by strengthening road networks, expanding Bus Rapid Transit corridors, investing in rail development and improving water transportation services.

Ajose emphasised the importance of education, particularly girl-child education, while promising investments in modern learning infrastructure, teacher development, digital learning and vocational training.

In the health sector, he said his administration would aim to achieve universal health coverage by strengthening primary healthcare systems, upgrading public health facilities and promoting preventive healthcare programmes.

Beyond these pillars, Ajose pledged to align Lagos’ development agenda with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, noting that the 2030 global target deadline is approaching.

He also announced plans to lift at least two million residents out of poverty within four years through investments in small and medium enterprises, agricultural value chains, technology hubs and vocational training initiatives.

Ajose called on party members and leaders of the APC to support his aspiration ahead of the party’s governorship primary election.

“I stand before you not just as an aspirant but as a loyal member of this great party. I humbly seek your support and your mandate to emerge as the APC flag bearer,” he said.

He pledged to run an inclusive administration that would serve all residents of Lagos regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.

Ajose concluded by urging party faithful to unite in building a more resilient, prosperous and equitable Lagos State.

“Let us unite not just in aspiration but in action to build a Lagos that is smarter, stronger and more prosperous for generations to come,” he said.