Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, popularly known as BTO, has received commendation from Ondo State indigenes living in Canada for his contributions to the development of Nigeria, with a call on him to consider contesting the governorship of Ondo State in the future.
The commendation came during the Minister’s recent visit to Canada, where he participated in the Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference held in downtown Toronto from August 12 to 14.
Tunji-Ojo used the conference to highlight reforms being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Interior and engage members of the Nigerian community on issues concerning governance and national development.
Beyond the conference, the Minister was hosted to a dinner reception at Mandarin Restaurant in Brampton by Nigerians and Ondo State indigenes resident in Canada.
The event, coordinated by Prince Olujimi Adekanle, popularly known as JAF, Chief Executive Officer of Savanah News, attracted professionals, community leaders, Nigerian-Canadians and other stakeholders.
Among those who were present on the occasion are: Professor Francis Fasanu, Professor of International Finance and Management Consultant at Sheridan College; Hon. Kelechi “Kaycee” Madu, lawyer and former Canadian government official; and Chief Femi Salako, Chief Executive Officer of Triangle Media.
The gathering provided an opportunity for participants to engage the Minister on governance, Nigeria’s development and the future of Ondo State.
Several participants commended Tunji-Ojo’s performance in public office and urged him to consider offering himself for higher leadership in Ondo State, including a possible governorship bid.
The Minister, however, avoided making a political declaration, urging patience and noting that there is a time for everything.
The response has continued to fuel speculation about his political future, even as he remains focused on his responsibilities as the Minister of Interior.
The growing interest in Tunji-Ojo’s political profile has been linked to reforms carried out under his leadership at the Ministry of Interior since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August 2023.