-Promises Policies that will enhance human, community development
As the race for the lkorodu Local government Chairmanship seat hots up, a young and vibrant son of the soil, Atebo Yussuf Owolewa, has declared his intention to join the contest, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Atebo, whose intention for the much coveted position has been circulating for months on various social media platforms, particularly those related to lkorodu division, via his campaign slogan, ‘AYO NBO’ (Joy is coming), unveiled his much awaited and anticipated aspiration on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at the Ikorodu Club hall, Aga, lkorodu.
The unveiling and declaration event recorded an impressive turnout of crowd of residents and supporters most of whom wore branded lemon T-shirts and Fez caps which had the inscription, ‘Ayo Nbo’, in solidarity and support for the aspiration of the young politician.
At the event, Atebo did not only declare his intention to lead lkorodu Local government come 2025, but also eloquently and convincingly outlined his manifesto, a situation which proved him to be a serious aspirant who is well prepared and ready to hit the ground running if given the job.
While addressing the cheering gathering, the symbol of the ‘Ayo Nbo’ political group, said that his aspiration is hinged on making his own contribution to the development of lkorodu, and also changing the narratives and consistent approach to governance, while assuring that his policies would bring accelarated development to lkorodu community and its people.
“I am seeking to contest for the Chairmanship position in Ikorodu Local Government to change the narratives and the consistent approach to governance.
“I am contesting not because I think it is a leadership failure, I am contesting to contribute my own quota to the growth and development of Ikorodu Local Government. Democracy works better when from time to time new blood, new ideas are allowed,” Atebo said.
“I am committed to addressing the basic needs of our people, rather than pursuing grandiose projects. We must focus on delivering tangible results that improve the lives of our citizens”, he added.
While stating that his ambition is not personal but communal, he urged the people of Ikorodu to join him on a journey aimed at revitalizing the local government, and promised to prioritize the welfare and wellbeing of lkorodu residents.
“In our pre-campaign awareness, we deliberately focused on and promoted the illustrious sons and daughters of Ikorodu who have brought joy and progress to our local government. I have come to serve and to be among these distinguished icons whose motives were never personal but communal,” he added.
Also in his address, Atebo unveiled his people and development oriented manifesto which focuses on areas such as healthcare delivery, educational development, infrastructural renewal, employment opportunities, tourism, poverty alleviation and youth and women empowerment .
Speaking on educational development, Atebo said that he plans to integrate vocational training into the education system by establishing vocational centers within school premises to equip youths with practical skills to enhance their employability, while he also intends to reduce financial burdens on parents by providing essential items needed to make learning and teaching effortless for both school children and teachers.
On infrastructure development, he said that he would improve on existing infrastructure by ensuring that those that are not working are put in good shape to serve the people, before providing new ones.
On security, he commended Odofin Adewunmi Ogunsanya for the wonderful job he’s doing on Security in lkorodu through the Security Joint Taskforce of his lkorodu Division Peace Initiative Limited (IDPIL), and promised to collaborate with the body and other local security outfits and make sure they get necessary support and equipment needed to function effectively and efficiently.
Atebo also plans to work with the local security forces and the Community Development Associations (CDAs) to engender effective community policing across the council.
On youth empowerment, he said that youths will be empowered through initiatives such as IT training, employability skills, and orientation, while he also plans to establish an lT Hall where youths can be trained by experts every summer break in order to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
While describing women as the backbones of the community and emphasizing the need to provide them with necessary support and resources to succeed, he said that his government would empower them through financial independence opportunities, support for participation in politics and decision-making and access to resources and training.
In the area of healthcare, the young Chairmanship hopeful mentioned upgrading existing facilities, leveraging the expertise of retired medical professionals, and providing laboratory equipment among others as parts of his plans to deliver effective and efficient health care to lkorodu residents when elected.
Brief Profile of Abdulazeez Yussuf Owolewa
Abdulazeez Yusuf Owolewa Atebo, born in the 1980s into a reputable Islamic family in Ikorodu, Lagos, is a dynamic individual with a diverse range of skills and interests. He is a trained administrator, branding expert, and passionate farmer with a strong commitment to agriculture and land management. Atebo’s personal ideology is shaped by his values of leadership, educational excellence, and community service.
He is known for his straightforward and candid nature, often expressing honest opinions regardless of the consequences, which earned him recognition as ‘The Most Outspoken Honourable’ during his student days
Atebo’s educational background is extensive, beginning at Ijomu Muslim Primary School and Yewa Grammar School in Ikorodu. He obtained a National Certificate in Education (NCE) in Islamic Studies and Political Science from the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, now Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), and a degree in Political Science from Lagos State University. Currently, he is pursuing a Masters in Business and Human Resources Management at Northumbria University, London. His professional training includes certifications from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) London, and other prestigious institutions.
Professionally, Atebo began his career as a teacher and administrative officer before establishing Atecommer Nigeria Limited, a conglomerate with interests in printing, branding, agriculture, and logistics. He also serves as a Human Resources Manager at Danny and Parks Limited in London. His leadership and political involvement are significant, having held various roles in political campaigns and foundations. Atebo’s commitment to grassroots initiatives and sustainable development is evident in his strategic plans for Ikorodu Local Government, focusing on education, security, agriculture, tourism, road infrastructure, and empowerment programs for women and youths.