…as Agbarapo advocates inclusive development

By Juliet Umeh

As conversations around governance and service delivery intensify across Oyo State, stakeholders have renewed calls for leadership that prioritises measurable impact and improved living conditions for citizens.

The renewed advocacy comes amid growing expectations from residents who insist that the dividends of democracy must be reflected in the quality of life of the average Nigerian, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

Among those championing this shift is Agbarapo Samuel, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, who has called for a transition towards what he described as people-centred governance.

Speaking on the need for responsive and accountable leadership, Agbarapo stressed that governance must go beyond political rhetoric and translate into visible development across communities.

“The people deserve to see and feel the impact of governance in their daily lives. Democracy should not end at elections. It must reflect in better roads, functional schools, accessible healthcare, and improved security,” he said.

Agbarapo, a former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and currently Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters, noted that his public service experience has been shaped by sustained engagement with grassroots communities.

According to him, governance priorities must include economic empowerment through job creation, support for small and medium-scale enterprises, and increased investment in agriculture to enhance food security.

He also emphasised the need to strengthen the education sector through improved funding, enhanced teacher welfare, and the introduction of skill development programmes targeted at youths.

On healthcare, he called for the revitalisation of primary healthcare systems and the provision of affordable medical services, particularly in underserved communities.

Highlighting infrastructure and security as critical pillars of development, Agbarapo underscored the importance of collaboration between government institutions and local communities in sustaining peace and stability.

He further advocated greater inclusion of youths and women in governance, noting that broader participation would foster more balanced and effective decision-making processes.

“Our people are ready to move forward. What is needed is leadership that understands their realities and is committed to delivering real progress,” he added.

Agbarapo maintained that sustainable development in the state would require accountability, transparency, and a governance model that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the people.

He added that the philosophy behind his message is anchored on collective responsibility, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved when both leaders and citizens play their roles.

“Only what is good moves a society forward, and it takes collective effort to achieve it,” he stated.