In a bid to promote unity and resilience in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges, Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has urged citizens to remain hopeful and steadfast, expressing confidence in the nation’s eventual economic recovery.
This message was conveyed during his recent three-day tour of the Ibarapa Zone, where Senator Alli engaged with local leaders, youths, and community stakeholders. The tour was initiated at the invitation of All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in Ibarapa, aiming to strengthen party unity and discuss critical national issues.
According to a statement signed by Akeem Abas, the Senator’s Special Adviser on Media, and made available to the press on Sunday in Ibadan, Alli used the platform to address the current socio-economic challenges, emphasizing the role of grassroots engagement in navigating these turbulent times.
“We are in difficult times as a nation, but we must not lose hope,” Alli remarked, addressing APC zonal leaders. “The APC remains committed to finding lasting solutions to our economic difficulties, but this can only be achieved through collective effort and a deep understanding of the unique needs of each region.”
The Senator reaffirmed his belief that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was working tirelessly to stabilize the economy, adding that his role as a lawmaker was to continue advocating for policies that benefit the people.
During the tour, Senator Alli met with leaders from the three local governments in the zone: Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central, and Ibarapa North. The discussions focused on the importance of unity within the APC, as well as addressing the impact of the economic downturn on rural communities.
Chief Timothy Jolaoso, the APC zonal leader in Ibarapa, lauded Senator Alli for his consistent responsiveness to the zone’s needs, commending his achievements over the past 15 months. Jolaoso also sought clarification on the federal government’s efforts to alleviate the nation’s economic woes.
Responding to these concerns, Senator Alli highlighted the need for unity and collaboration within the party. He stressed that the APC’s success in upcoming elections would largely depend on maintaining grassroots cohesion, urging members to set aside differences and work towards the collective progress of their communities.
“Our strength lies in our unity, especially during challenging times. Division will only slow the progress we all desire,” Alli emphasized.
In his meeting with community leaders, the Senator outlined his achievements over the past year and assured them of his continued commitment to implementing people-oriented projects in Ibarapa. He called for more local and state government intervention to cushion the effects of the economic crisis on rural dwellers, particularly through increased investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and education.
“The economic challenges have hit rural areas like Ibarapa the hardest. We must push for more development in agriculture and infrastructure to create jobs and lift the local economy,” he stated.
The senator also held a series of dialogues with the youth, recognizing their vital role in shaping Nigeria’s future. He acknowledged the frustration many young people feel due to unemployment but encouraged them to remain hopeful and engaged in politics and community development.
“Job creation is a top priority, but we also need to equip our youth with the skills and entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive. Agriculture, in particular, holds immense potential for Ibarapa,” Alli noted, pointing to ongoing efforts to introduce more vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities in the region.
He encouraged the youths to take advantage of existing government programs supporting students, small businesses, and agricultural ventures, reiterating that sustainable development in Nigeria would only be achieved through the active participation of young people.
As the tour came to an end, Senator Alli reassured the people of Ibarapa that their concerns were being heard and promised to continue advocating for their interests at both the state and national levels.
