Oyo 2027: Lam-Adesina Pledges Education, Healthcare Reforms, LG Autonomy
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Dr. Ayobami Wasiu Lam-Adesina, has pledged to revitalise the education and health sectors, while ensuring full autonomy for local governments if elected in 2027.
Lam-Adesina made this known while addressing journalists at the relaunched Guest Forum organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The aspirant, son of former Oyo State governor, Lam Adesina, said his decision to join the 2027 governorship race was driven by a desire to reverse what he described as the decline in public education and social services.
“I come from a humble background despite my father’s position,” he said. “The opportunities that enabled people like my father to rise through public education must be restored. Unfortunately, that system has deteriorated significantly.”
Lam-Adesina lamented the falling standards in public schools, noting that institutions that once produced notable leaders and professionals no longer meet expected benchmarks.
According to him, government must reposition public education to guarantee quality and accessibility for all, regardless of socio-economic background.
“While private education may not be affordable for all, the government has a responsibility to ensure acceptable standards that promote equal opportunity,” he added.
Reflecting on his academic journey from Ibadan to the Obafemi Awolowo University and his professional career in the United Kingdom’s healthcare system, Lam-Adesina stressed the importance of merit-based systems supported by strong public institutions.
On healthcare, he called for comprehensive reforms, drawing from his experience with the United Kingdom’s National Health Service.
He emphasised the need to strengthen primary healthcare to tackle preventable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and vision impairment through early detection and community-based care.
“We need a functional primary healthcare system that prioritises early diagnosis and preventive care. These are basic services that should be accessible to all,” he said.
The governorship hopeful also advocated economic revitalisation through industrialisation and the promotion of technical and vocational education to address unemployment.
“Our graduates face limited job opportunities. We must invest in industries while promoting vocational skills such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry. Not every career path must be academic,” he stated.
On governance, Lam-Adesina reiterated his call for strengthened local government autonomy, stressing that grassroots development is key to overall state progress.
“With many local governments being predominantly rural, granting them autonomy is essential to ensuring development reaches the grassroots,” he said.
He further highlighted opportunities under the Electricity Act 2023, urging sub-national governments to take proactive steps in electricity generation and distribution to support industrial growth.
He also recommended alternative energy solutions, particularly solar power, to address persistent electricity challenges.
Lam-Adesina concluded by emphasising the need for people-oriented governance, noting that public policies must prioritise the welfare of the majority.
“We must build a future where our children enjoy better opportunities than we do today. That is the driving force behind my aspiration,” he said.