By Akeem Abas
Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has embarked on a transformative journey in his first year in office, unveiling a series of impactful initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and development of his constituents.
His tenure has been defined by a steadfast commitment to education, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and social justice, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of the community.
Senator Alli’s dedication to education shines through his collaboration with the Good Governance and Development Initiative (GGDI) to sponsor a four-week free coaching program for 1,635 SS2 students across 18 centers in Oyo South.
This program not only prepared students for their WAEC exams but also facilitated the payment of WAEC fees for 54 outstanding students.
Furthermore, a scholarship fund was established to support exceptional students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their academic progress.
Senator Alli’s efforts to enhance the learning environment extended to providing computer sets, solar panels, and furniture to schools – Methodist Grammar School, Igboora and Ansar-ud-deen Grammar School, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
All these underscored his commitment to improving educational facilities and opportunities for students in the district.
Senator Alli’s focus on infrastructure development has led to the installation of solar street lights and the construction of public toilets, bolstering public amenities in the district.
His proactive approach to providing clean water is evident in the repair and installation of boreholes and deep wells across the 99 wards in his senatorial district, with 50 projects completed within his first year.
These initiatives are vital in enhancing the quality of life and ensuring the sustainability of local communities, reflecting Senator Alli’s dedication to improving essential services for his constituents.
Senator Alli’s economic empowerment initiatives have had a significant impact on over 3,000 widows, 3000 traders, religious groups and non-indigenous groups who benefited from a food bank worth over N100 million.
In December 2023, he sponsored e-commerce and agribusiness training for 1,000 constituents, equipping them with essential skills and startup capital to launch their businesses.
These efforts are aimed at reducing economic hardship and fostering entrepreneurship among youth and vulnerable groups, providing them with avenues for financial independence and growth.
Senator Alli has not left the health of his constituents untouched, hence his collaboration with University of Ibadan Medical Students to conduct medical outreach programme at Eruwa in Ibarapa East Local Government and Oke-Aremo in Ibadan, Ibadan North Local Government.
He has also been very responsive to disasters and emergencies within his senatorial district through provision of relief materials such as roofing sheets as well as financial support.
Senator Alli’s commitment to community safety is evident in his support for local police stations, with donations ranging from crucial infrastructure enhancements to solar inverters and solar street lights.
As a strong advocate for women’s rights, he has called for collective action to ensure gender equality and empowerment, emphasising the importance of addressing gender-based violence, increasing access to education for girls, and promoting women’s representation in leadership roles.
These initiatives underscore Senator Alli’s broader vision for a just and inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
On the Senate floor, Senator Alli has been an active participant, known for his authoritative and convincing arguments.
He has sponsored numerous motions and bills that reflect the interests and needs of his constituents and the broader Nigerian populace.
BILLS:
- A Bill for and Act to Repeal the institute of Chattered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria Act CAP 113LFN, 2004 and Enact Chartered Governance Institute of Nigeria and for Related Matters Bill, 2023
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Center Act 2023 to Establish Federal medical Centre, Igbo-Ora, Oyo State and for related Matters, Bill 2023
- A Bill for an Act to Amend Pension Reform Act 2014 and for Related Matters, Bill 2024.
- Chartered Institute Auctioneers (Establishment) Bill 2023
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Center for Citizenship and Leadership Training Act 2020 and for Related Matters, Bill 2024- In Draft
MOTIONS – Senator Alli has to his credit several motions moved on the floor of the Senate among which are:
- Motion for Immortalization State of Burial and Late Taiwo Akinkunmi OFR, “Mr Flag” Designer of Nigerian National Flag.
- Motion of Urgent National Importance on the Bomb Explosions in Bodija in Oyo Central Senatorial District of Oyo State on Tuesday 16th January, 2024 at about 7:44 pm caused by negligence in the handling of explosives by Miners.
- Motion urging the Senate to pay tribute to the Late Oba (Dr) Mohood Lekan Balogun – the Olubadan of Ibadan
- Motion on the Poor State of Road Infrastructure and menace of gully erosion in Nigeria (co- Sponsor)
The two motions listed below are still awaiting listing
- Need for Federal Government to Address Widened Disparities in Workers Salaries and to Harmonize Salary Structures among Ministries, Departments and Agencies Government in Nigeria of
- Petition against the CMD and Management of University College Hospital, Ibadan by 78 non-Clinic Staff of the College over non-Payment of 24 months salaries (January 2021 to date)
His legislative efforts reflect his commitment to enacting positive change and advocating for the welfare of Nigerians.
As the Senate Committee Chairman on Electoral Matters, he has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.
Through town hall meetings and retreats, he engages with his constituents, ensuring their voices are heard in the decision-making process.
In addition to his impactful initiatives, Senator Alli has demonstrated a strong commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents in Oyo South, embodying the values of ethical leadership, accountability, and inclusiveness.
Known for his integrity, humility, and dedication, Senator Alli is widely respected by his colleagues and constituents for his commitment to excellence in public service
His reputation as an “Omoluabi Senator” reflects his commitment to ethical leadership and public service.
Outside of his political career, he is also a devoted family man and philanthropist, continuously working to empower the less privileged and groups in his district through financial assistance.
As he continues his tenure, his achievements serve as a testament to his dedication to public service and the betterment of society, setting a foundation for continued progress and prosperity in the region.
Akeem Abas is Special Adviser on Media to Senator Sharafadeen Alli
