ODIDIOMO URGES FG TO ADDRESS INFRASTRUCTURE, SECURITY CHALLENGES IN IBARAPALAND

The Oyo South Senatorial candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, has called on the Federal Government to urgently address the infrastructure deficit and security challenges confronting Ibarapaland in Oyo State.

Olajide made the call while speaking at the Second Annual Diocesan Harvest of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ibarapa Diocese, held at the Rev. Longley Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Oke-Agogo, Igboora, in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The federal lawmaker, who currently represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said Ibarapaland deserved greater federal attention beyond the routine presence of government agencies.

He highlighted the need to revamp the Igangan Grazing Reserve to stimulate agricultural development, restore the Army barracks previously located in Lanlate, and improve telecommunications infrastructure across the region.

According to him, addressing these challenges would help strengthen security, promote economic activities and improve the living conditions of residents.

Reflecting on the harvest theme, “Harvest of Fruitfulness,” Olajide commended the Methodist Church for its contributions to national development, moral discipline and quality education.

He also expressed personal pride in his connection with the church’s educational heritage, noting that he is an alumnus of Methodist High School, Lagos/Ibadan Expressway, Toll Gate, Ibadan. He said the values of character and service remained important foundations for meaningful leadership and community development.

Olajide stressed that true fruitfulness should translate into tangible improvements in the lives of the people, observing that despite Ibarapaland’s agricultural potential and industrious population, the region continued to require greater investment in federal infrastructure and institutions.

He also drew attention to the cultural and economic opportunities presented by the World Twins Festival in Igboora, urging government authorities and private investors to explore the region’s unique heritage to create employment opportunities for young people, stimulate rural development and support local businesses.

Unveiling his legislative priorities ahead of the 2027 general elections, the lawmaker pledged to prioritise the development needs of Ibarapaland as he seeks to represent Oyo South Senatorial District in the Senate.

He said his approach would focus on legislative interventions, sustained advocacy and strategic collaboration with relevant federal agencies, the Oyo State Government and traditional rulers to attract development projects to underserved communities.

Olajide further outlined plans to pursue increased federal investment in education, healthcare, skills acquisition, digital connectivity, electricity and rural road networks.

He also emphasised the importance of ensuring that any development of the Igangan Grazing Reserve takes into account the interests, livelihoods and concerns of the host communities.

The lawmaker maintained that coordinated efforts involving government institutions, community leaders and private investors would be essential to addressing the region’s infrastructure and security concerns while unlocking its agricultural, cultural and economic potential.