A retired Brigadier General of the Nigerian Army, Bashir Biodun Adewinmbi, has declared his ambition to represent Osun West Senatorial District, positioning himself as a grassroots-driven candidate armed with decades of military experience, business acumen, and a growing political structure.
In an exclusive interview with Fresh Facts Magazine, the Osun-born retired officer offered a deeply personal account of his journey from a humble background to the upper ranks of the military, while outlining his political philosophy and vision for the people of Osun West.
Born into what he described as a modest family, Adewinmbi recounted growing up under the care of a farmer father and a petty trader mother. “I was not born with a silver spoon,” he said, reflecting on a childhood shaped by hardship but strengthened by resilience. “It was not easy, but today, by the grace of God, I am above poverty.”
His military career, which spanned critical periods in Nigeria’s history, exposed him to both domestic and international conflicts, as well as governance under military and civilian administrations. According to him, these experiences shaped his understanding of leadership, policy formulation, and the consequences of weak institutional enforcement.
“We have good laws in this country,” he noted, “but the problem has always been non-enforcement and policy inconsistencies.”
Following his retirement, Adewinmbi transitioned into business—venturing into real estate, farming, and construction—before delving into partisan politics. A longstanding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he revealed that his decision to enter politics was driven by a desire to influence governance and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Politics is for everyone,” he said. “I want to use my experience to positively impact the lives of the masses, especially at the grassroots.”
The retired general emphasized integrity as a core value, noting that he applies strict personal standards in assessing individuals within his political circle. “If you fail my integrity test, I deal with you with caution,” he stated.
On his political journey, Adewinmbi acknowledged that his early attempts at contesting taught him hard lessons about the realities of Nigerian politics, particularly the financial demands and the prevalence of opportunism. Despite this, he insists he is now better prepared, both financially and strategically.
He highlighted his extensive grassroots engagement across the ten local governments in Osun West, claiming to have established multiple political support groups and sustained weekly mobilization efforts. According to him, these structures have strengthened his acceptability among constituents.
Adewinmbi also pointed to a series of philanthropic initiatives he has undertaken, including land donations to religious organizations, support for persons with disabilities, and the establishment of a cooperative loan scheme for small-scale traders.
“I gave out interest-free loans to over 100 beneficiaries at the ward level,” he disclosed, adding that the initiative would soon be expanded across the senatorial district.
On his legislative agenda, the aspirant outlined plans focused on youth empowerment, education, infrastructure development, and agricultural support. He also proposed the introduction of adult education programmes to address illiteracy at the grassroots level.
“Education is key,” he stressed. “Even basic understanding can transform communities and improve participation in governance.”
Despite operating in a state currently controlled by an opposition party, Adewinmbi expressed confidence in the APC’s structure and electoral prospects in Osun. He maintained that his ambition remains unaffected by the political landscape, insisting that his party remains “intact and dominant on the ground.”
Addressing concerns about campaign financing, the retired general said his background as a former Director of Finance and Accounts in the military, coupled with his business ventures, has positioned him to adequately manage the resources at his disposal to fund his political ambition.
“I plan everything—weekly and monthly. I have what it takes to prosecute this ambition,” he said.
As the 2027 elections approach, Adewinmbi appealed to the electorate to trust in his leadership capacity, describing himself as the most qualified candidate in the race.
“With my experience, exposure, and understanding of national issues, I believe I can contribute meaningfully at the National Assembly—not just for Osun West, but for Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
His declaration adds to the growing list of aspirants positioning themselves ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive senatorial contest in Osun West.
