The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Rt. Hon. Najeem Salaam, has unveiled a comprehensive 10-point development agenda, pledging to prioritise workers’ welfare, economic growth, youth empowerment and reliable electricity supply if elected governor.

Presenting his manifesto on Monday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Osogbo, Salaam said his administration would be driven by a vision to build “an Osun that works for all,” through inclusive governance, infrastructural development and sustainable economic policies.

The former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly noted that despite its abundant human and natural resources, Osun State continues to face challenges including unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity and limited economic opportunities.

According to him, the manifesto was developed after extensive consultations with residents and stakeholders across the state and reflects practical solutions to the challenges confronting the people.

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“Today, I present myself before you with a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to building an Osun State that works for all,” Salaam said.

“We envision a state where workers and pensioners are valued, respected and prioritised; where farmers are adequately supported and agriculture becomes a major driver of economic prosperity; and where our youths are empowered with skills, jobs and opportunities to thrive.”

A major highlight of the manifesto is the candidate’s commitment to ensuring reliable electricity supply across the state, which he described as the foundation for economic development.

Salaam said his administration would pursue strategic investments in power infrastructure, alternative energy solutions and public-private partnerships aimed at achieving round-the-clock electricity supply.

“Electricity is the engine of development. It powers industries, drives innovation, supports businesses, strengthens healthcare delivery, improves education and enhances the quality of life of our people,” he stated.

“We believe that 24-hour power supply is achievable. Through strategic investments, alternative energy initiatives and effective public-private partnerships, we will provide reliable power infrastructure that stimulates industrial growth, attracts investors and creates thousands of jobs.”

The ADC candidate explained that the 10-point agenda focuses on workers’ welfare, agricultural transformation, quality education, accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, women inclusion, infrastructural development, security enhancement, investment promotion and accountable governance.

Describing the manifesto as a social contract between his administration and the people, Salaam said it was founded on integrity, compassion and a clear vision for prosperity.

“This manifesto is more than a collection of promises. It is a contract with the people, founded on integrity, driven by compassion and guided by a clear vision of prosperity,” he said.

He further urged residents to take ownership of the state’s development process, stressing that meaningful transformation requires collective effort.

“The task of rebuilding Osun belongs to all of us. Together, we can create jobs, strengthen our economy, secure our communities, modernise our infrastructure and build a government that is accountable to the people,” he added.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Salaam Campaign Organisation, Segun Olanibi, described the ADC flag bearer as the most qualified candidate in the governorship race.

Olanibi said the party had presented the best option for Osun voters, expressing confidence that Salaam’s experience, leadership credentials and development blueprint would resonate with the electorate ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

He maintained that the manifesto reflects the aspirations of the people and offers practical solutions to the state’s socio-economic challenges.

The event was attended by the ADC deputy governorship candidate, Mrs Yemisi Agiri; members of the party’s State Working Committee led by the State Chairman, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji; party leaders, civil society representatives, media practitioners and other stakeholders.