An aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Adedeji Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, has declared that his ambition to become governor in 2027 is driven by a desire to serve the people.
Olajide disclosed this while playing host to the delegation of journalists led by the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akeem Abas, in his private residence in Ibadan, the state capital, on Sunday evening.
Olajide, who currently serves as Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, said the governorship position is not a right but a responsibility that must be earned through dedication and competence.
The lawmaker explained that his long-standing loyalty to the state and his consistent record in politics have positioned him as a credible candidate for the job.
“I have remained stable and loyal to Oyo State. I have never left my party for any reason, and I have always placed service above personal gain. My background as a trained computer science expert also gives me an edge in driving innovation and modern governance in the state,” he said.
Olajide further stated that the developmental roadmap being implemented by the current administration under Governor Seyi Makinde must be sustained and improved upon for the benefit of residents.
He stressed that continuity in governance would ensure that ongoing projects are completed and that the state continues on the path of growth and stability.
On security, the aspirant noted that strengthening the state’s security architecture would be a top priority under his administration, adding that efforts toward state policing must be advanced to ensure a more coordinated and effective response to security challenges.
Olajide also pledged to consolidate the achievements of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, by improving its operations and expanding its capacity.
In the area of education, he promised to maintain globally accepted standards, including those recommended by UNESCO, to ensure quality learning across the state while emphasising that education remained a key driver of development and must be given priority attention.
Speaking on economic development, Olajide said his administration would create investment opportunities through agribusiness, while also sustaining existing initiatives in the sector.
He revealed plans to establish multiple free trade zones across the state to attract investors and boost internally generated revenue.
The PDP aspirant further assured that small and medium-scale enterprises would be supported to thrive, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
He also outlined plans to digitise the state’s economy, with a vision to position Ibadan as a major digital hub in the South-West region.
Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, noted that his experience at the National Assembly has prepared him for higher responsibility.
He disclosed that as Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, he has facilitated the establishment of Community ICT Centres across the state.