Many organizations face challenges with API-first strategies, often misunderstanding the approach and resulting in API sprawl, poor governance, and friction among teams. Gartner research highlights the need for a dedicated API platform team, distinct from integration strategy and delivery teams, to manage API strategy and governance effectively. Treating APIs as products rather than mere project byproducts aligns them with clear business objectives, improving adoption and maintenance. AI readiness is closely tied to effective API governance, as APIs are crucial for AI agents' data consumption and action. Organizations are encouraged to shift governance from restrictive rules to enablement, allowing developers to build compliant APIs efficiently. The success of API-led initiatives depends on treating APIs as strategic assets, with governance empowering rather than hindering teams, positioning them advantageously in the evolving AI landscape.