Majekodunmi-Oniru urges meritocracy in APC leadership selection ahead of 2027 elections

OBA SOYEBO

During a dialogue at the 2026 APC National Convention held at Eagle Square, Abuja, Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru delivered a progressive and unifying call to action regarding the future of Nigeria’s leadership. Addressing the party’s direction for the 2027 General Elections, the Princess emphasized that the selection of candidates must be rooted in progressive meritocracy and selflessness of humanity.

The high-profile event was attended by the nation’s top leadership, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Senator Yayi Adeola, HRH Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru (The Princess of Nigeria), Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, Dr. Hafsat Tafawa Balewa and Dr. Zainab Buba Marwa. The Princess’s appearance at the convention was followed by her presence alongside other dignitaries to personally wish the President a Happy Birthday on March 29th. Also present were notable figures such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside several other dignitaries and party stakeholders.

When asked at the convention if she was personally running for office, Majekodunmi-Oniru provided a candid and results-oriented perspective on the current political landscape: “It seems to be a selection process and not an election,” Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru stated. “I am deeply and will always be committed to the vision of a Greater Nigeria that propels an enabling environment for the majority of hundreds of millions of citizens to succeed rather than the 0.001%. I sincerely hope the selection process springs forth candidates of meritocracy and humanity in leadership who would lead selflessly and resultsfully. Nigerians truly deserve better, and better we must always work towards.”

The call for meritocracy serves as a strategic directive to the APC leadership to prioritize competence and proven character in its internal selection mechanisms. Majekodunmi-Oniru’s stance highlights a growing demand for a “Human-First” approach to governance, one that ensures that the nation’s leaders are chosen based on their ability to deliver tangible results for the collective good of all Nigerians. By advocating for selfless and results-driven leadership, the Princess reinforces the necessity of a political evolution that aligns with the aspirations of a modern, prosperous Nigeria.

Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru is a prominent leader and advocate for Africa’s unified development. She remains a vocal proponent for ethical leadership and the socio-economic advancement of Nigeria. She is President of The Office of Princess Olatorera Majekodunmi-Oniru, a 2027 Doctoral Candidate at New York University’s School of Leadership and Innovation and a 2023 alumna of Harvard’s Women and Power program. She is also recently a member of The Supporting the Emergence of Active Philanthropists in Nigeria (SEAPIN) organization.