I wish to congratulate the performing governor of Kwara State on his recent emergence as the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum. This is indeed historic, and momentous and is of far-reaching implications for the good image and posture of Kwara State. This appointment is a testament to his transformational and inclusive leadership qualities. The governor has remained a silent performer who is focused more on achieving results and building legacies for the next generation.

I believe that a new Kwara is on the horizon; all Kwarans – residents, and indeed all citizens can look forward to another four years of progress and progressive politics under the able leadership of Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, as the Executive Governor of Kwara State. He has kept faith in the utilitarian principle of using politics to promote the happiness of the greatest number and prioritise the interest of “all for the good of all.”

The campaign theme for his re-election as the executive governor of Kwara State succinctly captures the aspirations and desires of the majority of Kwaran as reflected in the slogan “Maa selo,” meaning continue your good work. Maa selo became the basis for which voters overwhelmingly gave another mandate of four years to AbdulRazaq to continue the consolidation of the system of good leadership and effective governance that he typifies. As he commences his second tenure as Kwara State governor, I would say the following agenda would continue to characterise the second term of his administration:

A disposition toward continuing the promotion of the principle of accountability in governance, including efficient deployment and use of the state’s human and material resources, a disposition to continue to build and nurture Kwara where every component, unit and part has the sense of belonging and ownership; a disposition toward having a highly motivated, effective and functional civil service that will prioritise on public good and service delivery in line with their respective institutional mandates.

Continuity in promoting the decentralisation of infrastructural development to boost intra/inter-state trade and commerce; promoting and further harnessing Kwara State’s locational comparative advantage as a gateway and link between the North and South; accentuate people-inclined and investor-friendly policies that will promote technological innovation and growth.

Disposition to sustain the investment in education as a tool for banishing poverty and catalysing prosperity for our people; disposition to strengthen the state health system to support the well-being and wellness of our population in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals; sustain support for agro and mining business development and the localisation of the value chain to boost employment opportunities.

Develop and strengthen the capacity of Small & Medium Scale Enterprises and the informal sector of the state’s economy as a veritable engine for shared prosperity and growth; diversifying and improving the capacity of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue in view of dwindling and diminishing federal allocations; promote occupational health, workplace safety and environmental imperative which underscores the value and quality of life; gender and youth inclusivity which has earned great respect and recognition for Kwara locally and internationally and collaboration and partnership with Community Development Association for accelerated development in targeted urban centres across the state.

As an incoming legislator, and along with my returning honourable colleagues, we shall provide effective legislative support around people-centred law-making, oversight and representation to enable your excellency to overwhelmingly fulfil the campaign promises to our dear people of Kwara State.

I heartily wish His Excellency a successful second term in office and an impactful period as the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

Ogbeni Seun Ogunniyi (Adato),

Member-elect, Ojomu Balogun Constituency,

Kwara State House of Assembly