Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Adedeji Doherty, has declared his readiness to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 governorship election, unveiling a development agenda focused on security, education, healthcare, infrastructure and youth empowerment.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, Doherty said the PDP was entering a new phase in Lagos politics and expressed confidence in the party’s ability to provide an alternative vision for the state.

The South-West National Vice Chairman of the PDP highlighted his long-standing loyalty to the party, noting that he has remained with the PDP throughout his political career and has served in various leadership capacities at state, zonal and national levels.

“This is a new chapter for the PDP in Lagos State. We are determined to offer Lagosians a credible alternative and provide solutions to the challenges facing the state,” he said.

Doherty, who described Lagos as Nigeria’s economic and financial nerve centre, argued that the state’s development is critical to the success of national economic policies.

According to him, efforts by the federal government to drive economic reforms can only achieve their full impact if complemented by effective governance and strategic investments in Lagos.

He expressed concern over what he described as gaps in critical sectors, including education, healthcare, transportation and urban development, despite the state’s substantial revenue base.

The PDP chieftain said that if elected, his administration would implement a comprehensive 10-point agenda covering roads, housing, health, education, security, water supply, power, youth empowerment, women development and social welfare.

He particularly identified affordable and reliable electricity as a key driver of economic growth, promising policies aimed at reducing power costs for small businesses and artisans. According to him, improved access to electricity would boost productivity for entrepreneurs, manufacturers and service providers across the state.

On education, Doherty said the sector would receive special attention under his administration, revealing that he is considering an education professional as his running mate to help drive reforms aimed at improving learning outcomes and preparing young people for future opportunities.

Addressing security concerns, particularly the growing threat of banditry and kidnappings in parts of the South-West, Doherty advocated stronger regional collaboration among state governments and the deployment of modern technology to combat crime.

He argued that insecurity in any part of the country ultimately affects Lagos through disruptions to trade, agriculture and economic activities.

The governorship hopeful said his security strategy would include closer cooperation with neighbouring states, deployment of surveillance technology, intelligence gathering and support for law enforcement agencies to protect lives, property and critical infrastructure.

Doherty maintained that Lagos must take a leadership role in promoting security and economic stability across the South-West, stressing that safeguarding the state’s status as Nigeria’s commercial hub requires proactive measures beyond its borders.

He expressed optimism that with effective planning, investment in human capital and improved governance, Lagos could better harness its economic potential and improve the quality of life for residents ahead of the 2027 elections.