From John Silas, Lagos
Tayo Oyemade, the Secretary to the Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has formally declared his intention to contest for the Chairmanship of Yaba LCDA in the upcoming July elections. Speaking at the Akinwunmi Youth Centre, Yaba, he outlined his ambitious vision for the local government, emphasizing infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved healthcare.
Oyemade acknowledged the federal government’s increased revenue allocation for local governments, stating that with proper management, Yaba LCDA is well-positioned to accelerate grassroots development. His core agenda includes expanding access to healthcare, creating employment opportunities for the youth, integrating digital technology into primary education, and providing affordable housing, particularly for the elderly.
He pledged to collaborate with non-governmental organizations, private sector investors, and development partners to drive sustainable growth in the community.
Oyemade assured residents that tackling hunger would be his immediate priority if elected. “By the end of my first 100 days in office, hunger in Yaba will be a thing of the past,” he declared, stressing that addressing food insecurity is crucial to solving other socio-economic problems, particularly among the youth.
He also urged young people to actively engage in the political process, encouraging them to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and participate in elections. “Change can only happen when you take part in the democratic process,” he stated.
To address the growing concern of drug abuse, Oyemade proposed a two-pronged approach: providing rehabilitation for drug users and creating alternative business opportunities for drug dealers to deter them from endangering the youth. He also announced plans to build recreational centers in all wards of Yaba LCDA, complete with free Wi-Fi, to serve as safe communal spaces where young people and families can interact, play, and stay engaged in positive activities.
Oyemade stressed the need to modernize education in Yaba, aiming to equip students with technological skills that will make them globally competitive. “Our children should be able to compete with students in New York, Toronto, and Singapore,” he said, emphasizing the integration of digital learning tools into primary school curricula.
On healthcare, he pledged to introduce mobile clinics to bring medical services directly to communities and launch a subsidized prescription drug program, particularly for senior citizens aged 65 and above.
As part of his economic development strategy, Oyemade promised to create job opportunities for graduates in Yaba by encouraging them to submit their CVs to the council. He emphasized skill development, job placement programs, and partnerships to secure global employment opportunities for young professionals.
Reiterating his commitment to democracy, Oyemade assured Yaba residents that he would uphold the principles of free, fair, and peaceful local government elections. He concluded his address with a message of hope, declaring, “Joy is coming.”
Lagos Central Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Matti Eshinlokun, also spoke at the event, commending Oyemade’s vision for Yaba LCDA. He stressed the importance of youth participation in politics and governance, urging young people to contribute constructively to the political process.
“I came to witness this declaration because I believe in a democratic process where the party selects credible candidates who align with its manifesto and can deliver for the people,” Eshinlokun stated.
He highlighted the need for discipline and unity among youths, noting that “violence is not the answer.” Instead, he encouraged young leaders to prove their capability through positive engagement and contributions to community development.
Eshinlokun expressed confidence that APC leaders in Lagos Mainland would support a candidate who not only enjoys grassroots popularity but also has the competence to drive meaningful development in Yaba.
