….. hammers on political, development agenda
Eniola Yekini
Former Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, Iyabo Obasanjo has declared that her political agenda to be the next governor of Ogun state is based upon her development plans for the state. She highlighted the importance of constant engagement with the grassroots as critical to political ambition.
Obasanjo declared that politics is fundamentally about relationships, grassroots connection and acceptance within a political family, stressed on her determination to seek elective position.
Iyabo spoke during a press conference held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where she addressed questions from journalists on her political ambition, governance priorities and national issues.
According to her, politics goes beyond merely contesting elections, stressing that it is built on human relationships and consistent engagement. She likened it to professional communities where colleagues build networks and support systems over time.
“If you are in a political party and nobody reaches out to you or asks about you, then something is missing. Politics is about warmth, acceptance and human connection,” she said, noting that she feels valued within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Addressing speculations that she might step down for another candidate, Obasanjo dismissed the suggestion, stating that she is fully committed to contesting.
“Why would I go round the state consulting and putting in effort if I am not ready to compete? Yes, I am in the race to the very end,” she declared.
When asked to assess the current state of the health sector in Ogun, the former commissioner said it would be inappropriate to offer an evaluation without firsthand assessment. She recalled that upon assuming office, she personally visited the 28 general hospitals owned by the state, as well as several primary health centres, before forming conclusions about the sector’s challenges and needs.
“To make a proper assessment, you must go to the ground and gather facts. Without that, it would be wrong to speak definitively,” she explained.
Obasanjo also advocated reforms that would strengthen democratic practice, including the introduction of term limits for members of the legislature, similar to those already applicable to executive offices. She argued that limiting the number of years individuals spend in legislative positions would encourage political renewal and create room for new ideas.
According to her, spending about 16 cumulative years in national political office should be sufficient, adding that democracy functions best when leadership is not treated as a permanent occupation.
On her development agenda for Ogun State, Iyabo Obasanjo identified industrialisation, agriculture, education, tourism and transportation as key focus areas. She commended the growth of factories in the state, describing industrialisation as a driver of job creation and increased revenue.
She stressed the need to strengthen agriculture through value addition and agro-processing, especially given Ogun’s proximity to major markets and export routes. Rather than exporting raw produce, she said the state must process its agricultural products to maximise earnings.
In the education sector, she proposed the establishment of a specialised secondary school dedicated to science and technology, aimed at nurturing talented pupils from an early stage. She also highlighted the potential of ICT hubs and call centres to create employment opportunities for young people.
Obasanjo further described tourism as an underutilised sector, noting the steady flow of visitors to Abeokuta via the Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor. She called for improved hospitality infrastructure and better promotion of cultural and historical assets to boost internally generated revenue.
She emphasised the importance of safer and more efficient transportation systems, particularly with the increasing presence of industrial trucks on Ogun roads due to expanding factory operations.
On national economic issues, she cited the stabilisation of the naira, infrastructure expansion and growing international trade engagements as positive developments. According to her, currency stability allows businesses to plan effectively, while improved road and port connectivity can enhance economic growth.
She concluded that job creation would remain central to her vision, noting that economic growth depends largely on citizens having disposable income.
“When people have money to spend, the economy grows. Real development starts from there,” Obasanjo said.