By Yetunde Fatungase
A former Commissioner for Health in Ogun, Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, has commended the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for its efforts in stabilising the Naira and infrastructure expansion among others.
Obasanjo spoke on Saturday at a media parley in Abeokuta, addressing questions from newsmen on her political ambition, governance priorities and national issues.
According to her, the stabilisation of the Naira, infrastructure expansion and growing international trade engagements are positive developments worthy of commendation.
She noted that currency stability enables businesses to plan effectively, while improved road and port connectivity would boost economic growth.
“Although there’s a lot of negativity around the construction of the coastal road but in the long run, it will generate income in terms of connectivity of the two ports.
“It will also lead to transportation ease to the East in ways that we can’t even start to reckon with. It’ll actually help decongest the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway. Right now, to go North in Nigeria or to go East, you have to come through Ogun State on that road.
“Yes, it’s good that they go through, but if they’re going through and congesting that road, it’s also a problem. So, that coastal road will help us to decongest Ogun state roads in ways that will actually help us with development too.
“There’s been some improvements in the security situation, mainly because we now have a lot of collaboration going on – international collaboration. The president’s visits to different countries for trade is boosting economic development,” she said.
Obasanjo explained that politics was not just about contesting elections but about nurturing relationships and maintaining steady engagement with people.
She compared it to professional circles, where individuals gradually build networks and systems of mutual support over time.
“If you are in a political party and nobody reaches out to you or asks about you, then something is missing.
“Politics is about warmth, acceptance and human connection,” noting that she feels valued within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On her development agenda for Ogun, Obasanjo identified industrialisation, agriculture, education, tourism and transportation as key focus areas.
She commended the growth of factories in the state, describing industrialisation as a driver of job creation and increased revenue.
She, however, noted that job creation would remain central to her vision, adding that economic growth depends largely on citizens having disposable income.
“When people have money to spend, the economy grows. Real development starts from there,” she said. (NAN)