2027: Ex-Lagos Commissioner joins race for Reps

A two-term commissioner in Lagos State, Mr Omotayo Bamgbose-Martins, has declared interest in the House of Representatives contest for the Lagos Island Constituency 2.

Bamgbose-Martins declared his intention for the race on Monday at a constituency meeting in Lagos Island.

Addressing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his Ward G1, Epetedo, Lagos Island, Bamgbose-Martins said he would work hand in hand with fellow lawmakers to deliver real, visible change at the grassroots.

Bamgbose-Martins, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), was Commissioner for Special Duties (January 2020 – September 2022) and Physical Planning and Urban Development (September 2022 – May 2023) in Lagos State.

He is aspiring to replace the incumbent representative, Prince Moshood Akiolu, whose second term will end in May 2027.

The former commissioner said that his over 30-year journey in the public service spans hands-on governance, policy development and community service.

This, he said, culminated in his role as Permanent Secretary prior to his appointment as commissioner in Lagos State.

“I envision a constituency where every citizen can thrive and no one is left behind; where the elderly as well as the youth have a voice and are well taken care of,” the House of Representatives aspirant said.

He promised to leverage his hands-on experience in infrastructure and urban renewal to promote better drainage, roads, clean water systems and energy access in Lagos Island.

“I offer not just promises but a proven track record of delivery. I will serve with the same loyalty, dedication, discipline and excellence that defined my public service career,” he said.

Bamgbose-Martins expressed a strong belief that his journey through years of dedicated public service had prepared him for adequate representation of his constituency in the National Assembly.

According to him, his vision is to serve as a dedicated bridge between the people and the government, promoting the ideals of the APC with integrity.

“I bring to the fore a legacy of loyalty, a high sense of responsibility and a reasonable level of maturity,” he said.

Bamgbose-Martins listed his key priorities to include people-first legislation through bills that improve small business growth, healthcare access and education.

Others are youth empowerment and skills development through mentorship programmes and job creation through public-private collaboration by providing funding access and market linkages for traders, artisans and SMEs.