A Lagos Island-born healthcare professional and politician, Ayodeji Bababunmi Da-Silva, has concluded plans to lead his supporters out of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alignment with progressive governance and people-oriented policies.
Da-Silva, a native of the Brazilian Quarters in Lagos Island, described himself as a lifelong Lagosian who was born, raised, and educated in the state. He emphasized his deep connection to Lagos and his commitment to its growth, noting that he is passionate about seeing the state develop into a globally competitive city comparable to places like New York City.
Explaining his decision, he said the move was not influenced by the internal challenges within the PDP but by his desire to align with what he described as a forward-looking political platform. According to him, after over 20 years in the PDP, it has become necessary to embrace a political movement that reflects evolving national realities and offers people-focused policies capable of driving development.
He further stated that his involvement in politics is rooted in a commitment to public service and improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly through his expertise in healthcare administration and human resource management. Da-Silva noted that public office remains the most effective platform for implementing meaningful reforms and delivering lasting impact to society.
A trained industrial chemist, he holds a Higher National Diploma in Chemistry from Ogun State Polytechnic and later pursued studies in healthcare administration. He built a career in the health sector, including serving as a Regional Director of a Health Maintenance Organization in Detroit, United States. His political career began during his student years, where he held leadership positions in the student union before officially joining the PDP in 2003. He contested the Lagos West Senatorial seat in 2007 and later ran for president in 2019 under the platform of the Save Nigeria Congress. He also urged Nigerians, including those in the diaspora, to remain patient with ongoing reforms, stressing that nation-building requires time and sustained support.