…unveils four-sector reform agenda

By Adeola Badru

A governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Oyedele Alao, has urged his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to avoid sentiment and financial inducement in selecting its candidate for the 2027 election, stressing that competence, character, capacity, and compassion should guide the process.

Addressing party leaders and stakeholders, Alao described the forthcoming election as critical, calling for unity and strategic decision-making within the party.

Drawing a parallel with the leadership style of Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his gubernatorial declaration in Ibadan, Alao said only a credible flagbearer could position the APC for victory and place the state on a path of sustainable progress.

He presented his ambition under a “Redemption Mission 2027,” noting that his decision followed consultations with party stakeholders and engagements with residents across markets, farms, schools, and hospitals.

“Oyo is due for renewal. We were once the Pacesetter State and a hub of political innovation. We must work to reclaim that position,” he said.

Alao outlined a four-point development agenda focusing on agriculture, healthcare, education, and civil service reform, which he said would drive inclusive growth.

On agriculture, he proposed a transition from subsistence to mechanised and commercially viable farming, supported by improved access to finance and value-chain development. He also pledged to establish agricultural processing zones across the senatorial districts and revive irrigation systems to support year-round farming.

“We will empower farmers with improved inputs, modern equipment, and access to financing, with the goal of strengthening food security and boosting agricultural productivity,” he said.

In healthcare, he highlighted a “Health for All” agenda aimed at upgrading primary healthcare centres, revitalising general hospitals, and strengthening preventive care, particularly in maternal and child health.

On education, Alao proposed an “education emergency” to address infrastructure gaps, improve teachers’ welfare, and expand science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), alongside digital literacy programmes. He added that scholarships and vocational training would be expanded to enhance skills development and reduce youth unemployment.

Regarding governance, he advocated civil service reforms, including merit-based recruitment and promotion, digitisation of processes, and improved welfare for workers.

“A government is only as effective as its institutions. We will build a responsive, technology-driven civil service that delivers efficiently and remains accountable to the people,” he said.

Alao added that his ambition reflects a broader vision for the state’s development, expressing confidence that a transparent primary process would strengthen the party’s chances in the election.