Prof. Ali Ahmad: The Leading Contender for Kwara’s Future in 2027
As the 2027 Kwara State gubernatorial election approaches, Global Reportage has described Professor Ali Ahmad as leading the race for the state’s top position. In its recent publication, Global Reportage highlighted his growing popularity and the strong support he commands across the state. Read the full report here: Ahead 2027 Governorship Poll in Kwara: Ali Ahmad Leads the Race.
A distinguished academic, seasoned legislator, and advocate for progressive governance, Prof. Ahmad has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the people of Kwara State. His blend of experience, vision, and integrity makes him the leading contender to steer the state toward a more prosperous and inclusive future.
A Scholar with a Purpose
Prof. Ali Ahmad is not just another politician—he is a renowned Professor of Constitutional Law and Legislative Studies with a distinguished academic career. He began lecturing in 1990 at Bayero University, Kano, before moving on to teach at the University of Ilorin, Baze University, Abuja, and Emory University School of Law in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. His expertise in law and governance gives him a unique understanding of constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
Beyond academia, Prof. Ahmad previously practiced law in New York, USA, and Nigeria, equipping him with a global perspective on legal and policy matters. This background has instilled in him a deep commitment to justice, fairness, and equity—values that are essential for good governance.
A Record of Legislative Excellence
Prof. Ahmad’s political career began in 2005 when he was appointed Special Assistant to then-Governor Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. However, it was his election to the 7th House of Representatives in 2011, representing Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency, that marked the start of his impactful legislative journey.
Under the initiative of Dr. Bukola Saraki, Prof. Ahmad played a key role in the establishment of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, serving as the Secretary of the Feasibility, Planning, and Steering Committees. His contributions to education and human capital development remain among his most notable achievements.
As a member of the House of Representatives, Prof. Ahmad was instrumental in sponsoring and ensuring the passage of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015—a landmark law that reformed Nigeria’s criminal justice system by promoting fairness, efficiency, and human rights protection.
In 2015, he was elected to the Kwara State House of Assembly to represent Ilorin South State Constituency. His colleagues unanimously elected him as Speaker of the 8th Kwara State House of Assembly, a testament to their trust in his leadership. Under his stewardship, the Assembly passed numerous laws that directly improved the socio-economic well-being of Kwarans.
His tenure as Speaker was characterized by transparency, efficiency, and a people-first approach. He ensured that governance was inclusive, fair, and beneficial to all parts of the state. His ability to unite lawmakers and pass pro-people legislation remains unmatched in Kwara’s legislative history.
Criticizing the APC-Led Government: A Voice for the People
Prof. Ahmad has been a consistent critic of the ruling APC government, speaking out against policies that harm the people of Kwara State. His key criticisms include:
Arbitrary Displacement of Businesses – The demolition and eviction of long-standing business ventures at Challenge, Ilorin, without providing alternatives for affected traders and entrepreneurs. This anti-business approach has disrupted livelihoods and weakened the local economy.
Failure to Implement the Local Content Law – Despite laws mandating the prioritization of indigenous contractors, the APC-led administration has consistently awarded major contracts to outsiders, marginalizing local businesses and leading to capital flight.
Neglect of Local Government Autonomy – While the Constitution supports financial and administrative independence for local councils, the ruling government continues to stifle local governance, preventing meaningful grassroots development.
Prof. Ahmad has vowed to reverse these injustices and ensure that governance prioritizes the welfare of Kwarans over political favoritism.
Championing Youth Inclusion and Local Government Autonomy
Prof. Ahmad is a strong advocate for youth participation in governance. He was a driving force behind the Not Too Young to Run Bill, which successfully reduced the age limits for elective offices in Nigeria, allowing more young people to actively participate in leadership.
He is also a firm proponent of local government autonomy, pushing for greater financial and administrative independence for local councils. Prof. Ahmad believes that a functional local government system is the bedrock of grassroots development and has pledged to fully implement autonomy if elected governor.
A Man of the People: Grassroots Engagement and Community Development
Unlike many career politicians, Prof. Ahmad has remained deeply connected to the grassroots. He believes governance should be people-centered, which is why he has spent years engaging with:
Traditional rulers
Religious leaders
Youth groups
Women’s organizations
Community stakeholders across Kwara State
His ability to connect with people across different demographics has earned him widespread respect and support.
Through his Ali Ahmad Foundation (TAAF), he has empowered thousands of Kwarans by providing:
Scholarships for students
Business grants for entrepreneurs
Financial aid for widows and orphans
His philanthropy transcends political affiliations, underscoring his belief that leadership is about service, not party politics.
The Vision for a Better Kwara
As Kwara looks ahead to 2027, Prof. Ali Ahmad has outlined a transformative agenda focused on:
Good Governance – Transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
Economic Growth – Job creation, support for local businesses, and investment in technology and innovation.
Education – Strengthening schools and expanding access to quality education.
Healthcare – Improving hospitals and ensuring affordable medical care for all.
Youth Empowerment – Expanding skill acquisition and entrepreneurship programs.
Local Government Autonomy – Ensuring councils have full financial and administrative independence.
Why Kwarans Should Support Prof. Ali Ahmad
Kwara needs a leader with experience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the people. Prof. Ali Ahmad has consistently demonstrated integrity, competence, and a deep understanding of governance. His past achievements speak for themselves, and his plans for Kwara show his readiness to lead.
As Global Reportage has observed, his growing popularity and acceptance across the state position him as the candidate to beat in 2027. Read the full report here: Ahead 2027 Governorship Poll in Kwara: Ali Ahmad Leads the Race.
As Kwarans prepare for 2027, the choice is clear: Prof. Ali Ahmad is the leader who will bring real development, fairness, and prosperity to the state. His candidacy represents hope, progress, and a government that truly serves the people.
Now is the time for Kwarans to rally behind a leader who understands their struggles and has the experience to provide solutions. Prof. Ali Ahmad is not just the best candidate; he is the right candidate.
Kwara 2027: The Future Begins Now with Prof. Ali Ahmad.
Signed:
Sa’ad Ayinde
Media Assistant,
Prof. Ali Ahmad, Former Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly