NDC Picks Animashaun as Doherty’s Running Mate for Lagos 2027
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has unveiled Tolani Animashaun as the running mate to its Lagos State governorship candidate, Funso Doherty, ahead of the 2027 election.
Animashaun was unveiled on Thursday at an event in Ikeja, Lagos, attended by the party’s state chairman, King Okunnege, Doherty and other party stakeholders.
The deputy governorship candidate brings more than three decades of experience spanning banking, education, international development and politics.
She previously worked at Eko International Bank, where she managed public sector and corporate accounts, and served on the board of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission.
Animashaun also founded Trust Educational Consults, an organisation that creates opportunities for young Nigerians to study French language and culture in France and Switzerland.
Speaking on his choice of running mate, Doherty said he considered diversity and inclusion important in building a government that represents different segments of society.
“Diversity is important because it helps people to feel included,” he said.
Animashaun, in her remarks, said she accepted the nomination with gratitude, expressing her commitment to working towards a Lagos State where government policies address the needs of residents.
She said her years of political mobilisation had exposed her to the challenges facing the people and the importance of leadership that prioritises public welfare.
The unveiling coincided with the presentation of the NDC’s 34-point manifesto, titled Ònà Tuntun, meaning “New Road, New Way”.
Presenting the manifesto, Doherty outlined proposals covering healthcare, education, housing, transportation, environmental management, job creation, support for small businesses and accountability in government.
The party promised to create 500,000 jobs and establish about 30 technical and vocational schools to equip young people with practical skills.
It also pledged free healthcare for mothers and children up to the age of 16, free public education, including examination fees, and one nutritious meal daily for pupils in public schools.
On housing, the party proposed the construction of 150,000 housing units within four years, while promising to modernise the state’s transport system and improve connectivity across its rail networks.
Doherty also pledged to review major public-private partnerships in Lagos and make the findings public as part of measures to promote transparency and accountability.
He said the proposed administration would focus on improving public services and ensuring that government resources translate into better living conditions for residents.
The NDC candidate urged Lagos voters to assess governorship candidates based on their leadership qualities, experience and character ahead of the February 6, 2027 election.
