The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced Mrs. Damilola Sonayan-James as its deputy governorship candidate, describing her selection as a strategic move aimed at promoting gender balance and youth inclusion within the party’s leadership structure.
The announcement was made by the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, during the official unveiling of the 41-year-old politician in Lagos.
According to Ojelabi, Sonayan-James emerged after extensive consultations and a rigorous selection process that assessed candidates based on experience, leadership capacity, grassroots acceptance, loyalty to the party, and their potential contributions to the continued development of Lagos State.
He stated that her nomination underscores the APC’s commitment to fostering inclusive governance, empowering women and young people, and sustaining Lagos’ position as a leading hub for innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development in Africa.
Sonayan-James, a native of Badagry Division and daughter of a former member of the House of Representatives, was selected to partner the party’s governorship candidate and current Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
Ojelabi described the APC ticket as a combination of experience, innovation, grassroots connection, and visionary leadership capable of advancing the aspirations of Lagos residents.
He noted that Sonayan-James has distinguished herself through years of dedicated public service, strong party commitment, and impactful leadership across both the public and private sectors.
An accomplished governance and development professional, she boasts more than 15 years of experience in public policy, institutional development, sustainability, risk governance, human capital strategy, stakeholder engagement, and community development.
Her public service record includes serving as Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), where she spearheaded initiatives focused on agricultural growth, women empowerment, youth development, educational support, and community welfare programmes.
Beyond government service, Sonayan-James has remained actively involved in grassroots political mobilisation, advocacy for women’s leadership, youth empowerment initiatives, and community development efforts across Lagos State.
Ojelabi said her close relationship with communities and dedication to service have earned her widespread admiration, particularly among women and young people, many of whom fondly refer to her as “Sisi Eko of APC.”
The APC chairman called on Lagos residents to support the Hamzat-Sonayan-James ticket, stressing that backing the party would ensure continuity, prosperity, inclusive growth, and sustained development across the state.