Rotimi Odunaike, the Labour Party candidate for the Lagos State governorship, has emphasized that improving the quality of life for residents will be a central focus of his administration if elected. In an interview on Daily Digest with Jimi Disu on Nigeria Info, Odunaike shared his motivation for seeking the governorship and expressed concerns about the living conditions in Lagos. He reflected on his experience growing up in the state before spending part of his professional life abroad.
Odunaike's concerns about Lagos are rooted in the everyday experiences of its residents, rather than economic statistics. He cited traffic and mobility as significant challenges confronting residents. For instance, he shared his personal experience of leaving his home in Ikeja shortly before 7 am to get to the radio station and spending about an hour traveling to his destination. This, he believes, is not a desirable way of living.
According to Odunaike, mobility should be treated as more than just a transportation issue. He argued that improved movement across the state would make it easier for residents to access jobs, businesses, and other opportunities. He gave the example of a resident of Ikeja who might need to travel to Epe for business, emphasizing that the journey should not be a major constraint. This, he believes, can be achieved with effective governance and public policy.
Odunaike also highlighted the plight of traders in the informal sector, who face challenges such as flooding and other environmental problems that can affect their businesses. He described traders as a vital part of the Lagos economy and emphasized that their daily experiences should be considered when assessing governance and public policy. The Labour Party candidate stressed that areas including governance, transportation, the economy, housing, and hospitality require attention.
Odunaike believes that Lagos should demonstrate its "Centre of Excellence" description through the quality of services and governance provided to residents. He emphasized that his interest in politics is driven by his views on the direction of the state, rather than competition among political personalities. His approach to leadership is attributed to values instilled in him while growing up, particularly by his mother, a Nigerian Army officer, and during his years in military schools.
The Labour Party candidate emphasized the need for stronger values and a greater emphasis on service in public life. He believes that at the end of the day, it is about the residents of Lagos and ensuring that their needs are met. Odunaike's vision for Lagos is one where residents are thriving, rather than just surviving. He aims to make a positive impact on the lives of Lagosians if elected as governor.
Odunaike's campaign focuses on addressing the practical challenges faced by residents, from traffic and mobility to economic opportunities and environmental issues. His approach is centered on improving the quality of life for all residents, and he believes that this can be achieved through effective governance, public policy, and a commitment to service. The Labour Party candidate is determined to make a difference in the lives of Lagosians.
Key points
- Rotimi Odunaike emphasizes improving residents' quality of life as a central focus of his administration.
- Odunaike cites traffic and mobility as significant challenges confronting residents of Lagos.
- The Labour Party candidate believes Lagos should demonstrate its "Centre of Excellence" description through quality services and governance.
