By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
Oyo State governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kayode Ogunsola, has unveiled his vision for the state, promising to prioritise small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), youth empowerment, agriculture, education and economic development if elected.
Speaking during an interview with journalists after facing the PDP Screening Committee at the Legacy House in Abuja on Thursday, Ogunsola said his years of experience in both public and private sectors had equipped him with the knowledge and capacity required to govern the state.
The aspirant, who hails from Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State, said he has over 30 years of professional experience spanning more than 20 countries.
“I have 30 years of cognitive experience both in the public and private sectors. I have worked in over 20 countries and I run my own business internationally,” he said.
Ogunsola also disclosed that he previously served as chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora in the United Kingdom and worked in the administration of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
Outlining his plans for the state, he stressed the need to strengthen SMEs, arguing that developed nations built their economies on strong middle-tier industries.
“We can build roads and infrastructure, but the question is what industries are we empowering?” he asked.
He said his administration would identify local industries and improve their productivity through training, technology and investment.
According to him, local products and traditional industries possess untapped economic value that can generate employment and revenue if properly developed.
On youth development, Ogunsola pledged to establish skill acquisition centres and improve technical education to address unemployment and reduce dependence on foreign labour.
“We need to ensure that we build faculties and centres of excellence in masonry, carpentry and woodwork. We need to skill our youths,” he said.
He also promised to focus on rural development and agriculture through improved roads, irrigation systems, storage facilities and agro-processing centres.
“Agriculture should not just be about survival. It should become a commercial system that creates wealth and opportunities,” he stated.
Ogunsola further pledged reforms in education and healthcare, promising improved public schools, stronger technical institutions and better healthcare services.
On security, he argued that poverty and unemployment were major contributors to insecurity.
“If you don’t address poverty, then things like kidnapping will persist,” he said, adding that government must adopt targeted solutions to tackle different security challenges.
