Former spokesperson of the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. (Mogaji) Seye Oladejo, has said Lagos State deserves a special status because of its strategic role as Nigeria’s economic and commercial hub.
Oladejo made the declaration during his official announcement to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Mushin Constituency II at the GOS Compound in Olateju, Mushin, Lagos.
The former chairman of Mushin Local Government said Lagos requires increased federal recognition and support to match the economic responsibilities it carries for the country.
‘Lagos State should be accorded a special status as Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, and our 37 LCDAs should be officially recognised,’ he said.
Oladejo pledged to sponsor a Lagos Special Status and Infrastructure Support Bill at the National Assembly if elected, noting that the legislation would seek increased federal funding for infrastructure and development projects in the state.
He also promised to push for the constitutional recognition of Lagos State’s 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) through a proposed Local Government Autonomy and Recognition Bill.
Speaking on his ambition, Oladejo described it as a ‘social contract’ with the people of Mushin Constituency II focused on impactful representation and people-oriented legislation.
‘I am here to canvass for your support and seek your understanding to back me up at the House of Representatives for Mushin Constituency II,’ he said.
The APC chieftain highlighted youth empowerment, education, healthcare, sports development, and economic inclusion as key priorities of his legislative agenda.
According to him, he would promote vocational education and digital skills training to improve employment opportunities for young people.
‘We will drive vocational education for our youths, strengthen support for public schools, empower micro and small-scale businesses, and create opportunities for young people through sports development,’ he said.
Oladejo also promised support for artisans, traders, widows, indigent students, and people in the creative industry through targeted empowerment programmes and proposed legislation.
He disclosed plans for a National Youth Skills and Employment Development Bill aimed at creating large-scale employment opportunities through vocational and technical training.
Other proposed legislations, according to him, include a Public Education Support and Equity Bill, a National Mental Health and Community Care Bill, and an MSME and Informal Sector Growth Bill.
On education, he promised free JAMB and GCE forms for indigent students as well as scholarships for outstanding students in public institutions.