By Kayode Olopade
The SMA Movement on Wednesday launched its “Renewed Hope 2.0” mobilisation campaign in support of the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the group’s convener, Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, formally declared his intention to contest the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.
The event, held at the Nigeria Police College Ikeja parade ground, attracted party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, youth and women groups, as well as party faithful from across the state.
Speaking earlier at the event, Director-General of the SMA Movement, Biodun Coker, described the gathering as a historic step towards strengthening grassroots mobilisation for President Tinubu’s second-term bid while activating the political structure of the movement across Lagos.
Coker announced that the launch signalled the commencement of a door-to-door mobilisation campaign across all the 376 wards and 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas in the state.
According to him, the initiative represents a coordinated effort to deepen grassroots engagement and consolidate support for the APC ahead of future elections.
He commended Ajose and the leadership of the movement for initiating what he described as a strategic mobilisation effort, noting that Lagos, widely regarded as the political base of President Tinubu, must take the lead in delivering strong electoral support.
Coker also referenced prevailing global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel and the United States, saying Nigeria’s recent economic reforms have positioned the country for greater energy independence.
He noted that the removal of fuel subsidy by President Tinubu had created opportunities for increased domestic refining capacity, citing investments such as the Dangote Refinery, which he said would reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
“Because of these strategic decisions, Nigeria is gradually reducing its reliance on imported petroleum products and building a more resilient energy future,” Coker said.
He admitted that the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in Lagos fell short of the APC’s expectations, attributing the result partly to complacency among party members.
However, he assured supporters that the new mobilisation drive would be massive, coordinated and strategic.
“Our strategy is clear, our mission is defined, and our determination is unwavering,” he said.
In his declaration speech, Ajose formally announced his intention to seek the governorship ticket of the APC in Lagos State, describing his aspiration as a continuation of the progressive legacy that has shaped the state for decades.
He said his ambition aligns with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu and aims to accelerate development while improving the quality of life for Lagos residents.
“I declare my intention to seek the gubernatorial ticket of our great party, the APC, and ultimately to serve as the next Governor of Lagos State,” Ajose said.
Outlining his policy direction, the aspirant identified housing, transportation, education and healthcare as the four cardinal pillars of his agenda.
On housing, Ajose promised to pursue affordable and sustainable housing through public-private partnerships, innovative financing models and improved urban planning.
He also pledged to expand the state’s multi-modal transportation system by strengthening road infrastructure, expanding Bus Rapid Transit corridors, advancing rail development and improving water transportation services.
Ajose emphasised the importance of education, particularly girl-child education, promising investments in modern learning infrastructure, teacher development, digital learning and vocational training.
In the health sector, he said his administration would work towards universal health coverage by strengthening primary healthcare systems, upgrading public health facilities and promoting preventive healthcare programmes.
Beyond these pillars, Ajose pledged to align Lagos’ development plans with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, noting that the 2030 global target deadline is fast approaching.
He also announced plans to lift two million residents out of poverty within four years through investments in small and medium enterprises, agricultural value chains, technology hubs and vocational training.
Ajose appealed to APC leaders and members to support his aspiration ahead of the party’s governorship primary election.
“I stand before you not just as an aspirant but as a loyal member of this great party. I humbly seek your support and your mandate to emerge as the APC flag bearer,” he said.
He further pledged to run an inclusive administration that would serve all residents of Lagos regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.
Ajose concluded by urging party faithful to unite in building a more resilient and prosperous Lagos State.
“Let us unite not just in aspiration but in action to build a Lagos that is smarter, stronger and more prosperous for generations to come,” he said.
No comments:
Post a Comment