1 week ago
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Member representing Akoko Northeast and Northwest Federal Constituency of Ondo state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ifeoluwa Babajide Ehindero, has displayed his one-year scorecard, saying his time in office had been marked by proactive leadership, strategic governance and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people.
Speaking during an interview in his office, in celebration of his one year in office, Ehindero reflected on his transition from business to politics, the challenges of legislative service and his vision for the future.
He said: “Transitioning from the business world to public service has been both challenging and rewarding. It has provided me with the capacity to reach the less privileged and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
“My political journey began with a deep-seated commitment to service, culminating in my election during the February 3, 2024, by-election. The victory placed me in a strategic position to address pressing needs across Akoko Northeast and Northwest’s 23 wards.
“I made several campaign promises centered on education, healthcare, empowerment and mentorship. My interactions with constituents during the campaign gave me firsthand insight into their needs, which has guided my work in office. I remain committed to fulfilling those promises by directly addressing the concerns of students, women and youth.
“I must commend my predecessor, Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Ojo, who laid a solid foundation for effective representation. His dedication to service provided me with a blueprint to build upon. Stepping into office, I knew I had to hit the ground running to uphold the high standards…
“Despite joining the House of Representatives mid-budget cycle, I wasted no time in making my impact felt. My ability to navigate the complexities of national governance and secure funding for critical projects underscores my political dexterity.”
He said: “When I assumed office in February, 2024, the national budget had already been concluded, which meant I had to build relationships, leverage networks, and lobby strategically to secure projects for my constituency.
“My efforts bore fruit in tangible ways. Within months, my office successfully facilitated the construction of six blocks of classrooms to improve educational infrastructure in Akoko Northeast and Northwest. Additionally, my advocacy led to the provision of medical equipment for 12 primary healthcare facilities and the installation of industrial solar-powered boreholes across various communities.
“Beyond the aforementioned, I also initiated a vocational skills acquisition programme targeted at empowering youths and women in my constituency with practical skills in tailoring, hairdressing, ICT and other trades.
“In a country where unemployment is a major challenge, I believe one of the best ways to support my people is by equipping them with sustainable skills. We have already begun training programs and our goal is to reach at least 1,000 youths and women before the year ends.
“I sincerely appreciate Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the 10th National Assembly, for his unwavering support. He has been an outstanding leader, always prioritizing the needs of our constituents.”
“The National Assembly is composed of distinguished leaders with strong credentials. Our Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, is a two-term governor and former chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum. Our Speaker, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, is a man of impeccable integrity and a former lecturer. These are individuals with extensive governance experience.
“The apparent synergy between the legislature and executive stems from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s legislative backgrounds.
“They understand the importance of collaboration and the necessity for a harmonious relationship between both arms of government. Those who criticize this relationship as being a rubber-stamp approach simply fail to understand the essence of strategic governance.
“Having said that, looking ahead to 2025, I remain focused on expanding my impact, particularly in the areas of education, youth empowerment and infrastructure development. One of my legislative efforts is the bill for the establishment of a Federal College of Education in my constituency.
“The bill passed its first reading in October, 2024, and has successfully gone through the second reading. We are now preparing for a public hearing before it moves to the Senate for concurrence.
“Beyond legislative work, I’m keen on creating employment opportunities, improving healthcare services and supporting grassroots leadership development. My engagement with student groups and youth organizations, particularly the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has earned me a reputation as a champion of young people.
“Additionally, road construction remains a key priority to me. We are working tirelessly to secure funding for critical infrastructure projects that will enhance transportation and connectivity across our communities.
“Another key initiative is my effort to provide financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Many young entrepreneurs in my constituency have great business ideas but lack the capital to bring them to life. That’s why I am working with financial institutions and government agencies to create an empowerment fund that will provide seed capital to promising business owners.
“I played an active role in Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s landslide victory in the August 8, 2024, gubernatorial election, in which the governor secured an 18-0 win across all local governments in Ondo State.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s overwhelming victory speaks volumes about his popularity and leadership qualities. He is a man of peace, widely accepted across the state. He is someone I deeply respect.
“I worked closely with the Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji Ojo and other key stakeholders to mobilize support in my constituency, ensuring a resounding victory for our party.
“In a nutshell, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and I remain committed to delivering results. With continued strategic planning, collaboration, and dedication, I am confident that 2025 will be a transformative year for my constituency.”
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