…Unveils 10-point manifesto for governance

By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

OSOGBO — The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the August 15, 2027 governorship election in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has declared that he is contesting the election to win and has no intention of stepping down for any candidate.

Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, made the declaration on Monday while presenting his 10-point agenda manifesto at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Osogbo.

Speaking with journalists after the presentation, the ADC candidate dismissed speculations that he could withdraw from the race in favour of another contender, insisting that his ambition was driven by a desire to offer a new direction for the state.

“I am contesting to win this election. I am clear about the things I want to do, and I am not doing it on behalf of anybody,” he said.

“I am presenting my own manifesto, which reflects my determination to positively impact Osun State. I will not abandon such ideas for anyone. Doing so would be an insult not only to me but also to my supporters.”

Salaam explained that the manifesto was developed through extensive research and consultations with stakeholders across the state, describing it as a blueprint for sustainable development and improved governance.

The ADC candidate also called for issue-based politics, saying elections should be contests of ideas rather than platforms for insults, personal attacks and political violence.

“Politics is a contest of ideas, not a war. I do not need to criticise or abuse anyone. What I need to do is present my agenda and allow the people to decide whether it is worthy of their support,” he said.

“Every government comes with its own objectives. Those who have governed the state before have contributed what they could. I am simply saying that I have more to offer the people of Osun State.”

Salaam further stated that neither the advantage of incumbency nor federal influence would deter him from pursuing his ambition.

“We rely on God because we do not have money or power. What we have are the people who believe in our agenda and our vision for the state,” he added.

10-Point Agenda

The ADC flagbearer outlined a 10-point agenda he said would form the foundation of his administration if elected governor.

The agenda includes workers’ welfare and accountable leadership, agricultural development aimed at transforming Osun into a regional food production hub, and enhanced security and territorial protection.

Other priorities are investment in education to improve the quality of teaching and learning, infrastructure development and power generation with a target of ensuring regular electricity supply across the state.

The manifesto also focuses on youth engagement, job creation and social welfare programmes, as well as increased investment in the health sector to improve service delivery.

In addition, Salaam pledged to promote women’s empowerment and inclusion in governance, strengthen culture and tourism development, and encourage community engagement.

He also promised to facilitate investments and support small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) as a strategy for stimulating economic growth and expanding employment opportunities in the state.

According to him, the successful implementation of the agenda would place Osun on a path of sustainable development and improved socio-economic prosperity.