I’ll drive Oyo economy through Agriculture, SMEs — APC Guber aspitant
Economy
By Akeem Abas
Iseyin (Oyo State) July 17, 2018 (NAN) An APC governorship aspirant in Oyo state, Dr Olusola Ayandele, on Tuesday said he would address youth unemployment through investment in agriculture and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) if elected.
Speaking during a visit to the palace of Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba AbdulGaniyu Salau, Ayandele said that massive investment in agriculture and SMEs would help lift many youths out of poverty.
“I am very passionate about banishing poverty and reducing youth unemployment drastically in the state.
“Our state is agrarian and there are lots of potentials here to drive the economy and create jobs.
“Our people also engage in small businesses which could grow the economy and drive revenue for government. We will ensure SMEs are strengthened through adequate empowerment,” he said.
The governorship aspirant said that he would revive the farm settlements which was introduced by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Ayandele pledged to build on the legacies of Gov. Abiola Ajimobi in Education, Health and Infrastructure, saying he has raised the bar of good governance in the state.
He expressed support for the clamour for creation of state police, adding it would help in addressing the various security challenges bedeviling the nation.
In his remark, the Iseyin monarch urged Ayandele to focus on the industrialisation of the state in his job creation agenda.
“I am sure with unemployment and poverty reduced drastically, there would be drastic reduction in crime and our people will be able to sleep with their eyes closed.
“You have all gone round the world and I will love you to bring the experiences you have garnered across to bear in the state’” he said.
The monarch called on the federal government to continue to promote “Made-in-Nigeria” goods as a way of encouraging local production.
“We must change from being a consuming economy to a productive one. Majority of the youths producing goods in China are illiterates,” the monarch said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ayandele was accompanied by several APC chieftains including Alhaji Yinka Taiwo, former Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party in the state.(NAN)
TAA/WOJ
Edited by Wale Ojetimi