By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Princess Damilola Sonayon James has expressed gratitude to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, party stakeholders and Lagosians following her emergence as the APC deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.
In a statement of appreciation, James described her nomination as a reminder of the endless possibilities that have defined our Lagos, adding that her emergence reflects divine grace, party confidence and the support of Lagosians across all strata.
“Today is a reminder of the endless possibilities that have defined our Lagos. It is my hope that my story continues to serve as a reminder that there is no ceiling to our greatness,” she said.
The APC deputy governorship candidate said she remains deeply thankful to God, noting that her political journey has been guided by faith and divine direction.
“As a woman of faith, I have no doubt that God is the architect of our lives, and for this reason, I thank God for His benevolence and grace, which continue to order my steps along this journey,” she stated.
James specifically appreciated the leadership of the APC for entrusting her with the responsibility, while commending the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), led by Prince Tajudeen Olusi, for what she described as its stabilising role in the governance structure of Lagos State.
She also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, describing his leadership as transformative and instrumental to Nigeria’s democratic growth and economic repositioning.
“I convey my deepest gratitude to our President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose exemplary leadership has deepened democratic values in our country and under whose leadership our nation is now on a stronger economic footing,” she said.
James further extended appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, as well as the state Deputy Governor and APC governorship candidate, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, alongside party leaders, elders, executives and members across Lagos State led by Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi.
She also acknowledged the support of traditional rulers, community leaders, grassroots mobilisers, women groups, youth leaders and party faithful across the state, noting that their encouragement has remained instrumental to her political rise.
“I appreciate our traditional rulers, community leaders, grassroots mobilisers, women and youth leaders, and countless supporters across the state,” she said.
James reserved special appreciation for the people of Badagry, particularly Badagry West, where she previously served, describing their support as a continuous source of strength and inspiration.
“This moment belongs to all of us, especially our young people, women and girls. I am grateful for your outpour of support and look forward to meeting you all in the coming days,” she added.
She pledged commitment to the APC governorship ticket alongside Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, assuring that the party would consolidate on its governance model in Lagos State.
“It is a tremendous honour to fly the flag of our great party as deputy governorship candidate to our candidate, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat. Together, we shall work to consolidate the model of progressive governance that has distinguished Lagos as a Centre of Excellence and example to other subnationals,” she said.
James concluded by thanking Lagosians and Nigerians, praying for continued peace, progress and prosperity for Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria..
