Sikiru Ayedun, the African Democratic Congress candidate for Ife federal constituency, has promised to prioritise youth empowerment and infrastructural development if elected in 2027.

Mr Ayedun made the pledge at a town hall meeting held in Ile-Ife on Wednesday.

He promised effective representation for constituents, assuring them he would work to attract federal government projects, programmes and interventions to the constituency.

The candidate said he would champion legislation and policies to improve employment opportunities and economic empowerment for youths and women.

According to him, addressing unemployment, poverty and lack of economic opportunities will help prevent young people from being recruited into criminal activities and other social vices.

“No other candidate or elected officer has done what I did today, and it is going to be a continuous programme.

“As commissioner for home affairs, culture and tourism during Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s regime, I renovated Ile-Ifa Agbaye and Oodua Shrine, constructed Omi-Okun, Ijio and Toyosi roads, and empowered youths, widows and the aged. I also provided jobs for youths and ensured the provision of infrastructure to the ancient city of Ife,” he stated.

According to him, farmers will receive modern agricultural machinery, training, and irrigation facilities to cultivate land more efficiently, mostly during the dry season.

The candidate promised that women would receive assistance to establish and expand their businesses, while young people and artisans would be supported to acquire skills in areas such as Adire production and other crafts.

Babatunde Olaniyiloye, the ADC senatorial candidate for Osun East, identified youth unemployment, agricultural development and support for small businesses as major areas requiring attention. Mr Olaniyiloye said that, if elected, he would propose measures to promote youth engagement and reduce unemployment, noting that the National Assembly has significant powers to influence development.

The candidate also advocated mechanised farming to improve agricultural production and ease the difficulties farmers face. He expressed that the proposed interventions would help farmers move away from traditional farming methods and improve their livelihoods.

Mr Olaniyiloye also called for financial empowerment and other forms of support for women, artisans and small-scale business owners to strengthen their economic activities.

The candidate noted that creating an enabling environment for small businesses and vocational skills would improve livelihoods and provide more economic opportunities for residents of Ife-Ijesa.

The town hall meeting was attended by businessmen and women, artisans, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) members, and traditional rulers, among others. 

(NAN)