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…..Promises Focus on Jobs, Agriculture, Education, Healthcare and Infrastructure Ahead of June 20 Poll

The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election, Otunba Peter Obafemi, has called for a shift in political discourse toward practical solutions to the economic and social challenges facing the state, urging candidates and stakeholders to focus on policy-driven engagement ahead of the June 20, 2026 election.

In a statement released on Monday, Obafemi said the future of Ekiti State depends on responsible leadership and strategic interventions capable of addressing unemployment, poverty, food insecurity, infrastructure deficits, healthcare challenges, and educational decline.

The SDP flagbearer noted that extensive consultations with residents across the state revealed widespread concern over economic hardship and limited opportunities, particularly for young people.

According to him, youth unemployment and the increasing migration of skilled professionals remain among the most pressing challenges confronting the state.

“Ekiti continues to produce highly educated graduates and talented individuals, yet the absence of sufficient industries and large-scale employers has limited opportunities for gainful employment,” he said.

Obafemi observed that the situation has forced many young people to leave the state in search of better opportunities elsewhere, stressing that deliberate investment in economic development is required to reverse the trend.

He advocated policies aimed at creating a conducive environment for businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, promoting innovation, and attracting investments capable of generating sustainable employment.

The governorship hopeful identified agriculture, technology, manufacturing, tourism, and small and medium-scale enterprises as key sectors that could drive economic growth and job creation if properly developed.

On agriculture and food security, Obafemi expressed concern over persistent poverty despite the state’s agricultural potential, calling for increased investment in modern farming techniques, access to credit facilities, improved storage infrastructure, value addition, and enhanced market access for farmers.

He argued that strengthening the agricultural value chain would not only improve food security but also stimulate rural development and create employment opportunities.

The SDP candidate also raised concerns over Ekiti’s dependence on federal allocations, saying the state must broaden its revenue base through expanded economic activities, private-sector participation, and improved efficiency in public institutions.

According to him, economic diversification remains critical to generating the resources needed for sustainable infrastructure development and improved public services.

Speaking on infrastructure, Obafemi acknowledged ongoing improvements in road construction but maintained that many rural and community roads still require urgent attention.

He said better transportation networks would facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, boost commerce, and improve connectivity among communities.

The SDP candidate further highlighted challenges in access to potable water and sanitation, urging the adoption of innovative and sustainable solutions to expand water supply systems across the state.

He described access to clean water as essential to public health and community development.

On security, Obafemi stressed the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, local communities, and other stakeholders to tackle emerging threats and guarantee the safety of lives and property.

“The safety of lives and property remains a prerequisite for economic growth and social stability,” he stated.

The governorship contender also advocated renewed investment in the healthcare sector, particularly in rural communities where access to quality medical services remains limited.

He called for the strengthening of primary healthcare centres, upgrading of medical infrastructure, and expansion of preventive healthcare programmes.

Education, he noted, must remain a priority if Ekiti is to sustain its reputation as the “Fountain of Knowledge.”

Obafemi urged government and stakeholders to invest more in educational infrastructure, teacher development, student support systems, and policies aimed at reducing school dropout rates and improving learning outcomes.

As political activities intensify ahead of the governorship election, the SDP candidate appealed to political parties and candidates to prioritise issue-based campaigns rather than divisive rhetoric.

He said elections should provide an opportunity for citizens to evaluate ideas, policies, and development plans that would shape the future of the state.

“The challenges facing Ekiti are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With responsible leadership, strategic planning, prudent management of resources, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, the state can achieve sustainable economic growth, improved social welfare, and greater opportunities for its people,” Obafemi said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting policies that would foster development, inclusion, and shared prosperity for all residents of Ekiti State as the race to the Government House enters its final stretch.