By Akeem Abas
Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has demonstrated relentless commitment and trailblazing efforts in the last seven months, effectively complementing his service to humanity.
Through infrastructure development, education, women empowerment, agricultural advancement, job creation, social welfare programs, constituency engagement, humanitarian interventions, and collaborative governance, the lawmaker remains dedicated to uplifting his constituents and driving positive change within the Oyo South district.
His leadership and steadfastness make him an exceptional representative of the people and a true trailblazer in service to humanity. Alli’s strong leadership abilities and dedication to the betterment of his constituency have earned him respect as well as admiration of his colleagues and constituents alike.
The respected grassroots politician has been actively involved in the political landscape of Oyo State for many years. His commitment to serving the people at the grassroots level is evident in his tireless efforts to improve the lives of his constituents.
He has consistently championed the cause of the common man through initiatives that promote economic growth, job creation, and improved social welfare. Senator Alli has been instrumental in the implementation of measures to ensure effective utilization of public resources.
Education is one area that Senator Alli is deeply passionate about. He recognizes that education is the key to unlocking opportunities and empowering the youth. By investing in the education of the youth, he is investing in the future of Oyo South.
Over the past seven months, he has spearheaded several trailblazing efforts, prioritizing the needs and well-being of his constituents. Recognizing the importance of education and empowering the youth, he has championed initiatives aimed at enhancing learning opportunities.
He recently partnered with an NGO, Good Governance and Development Initiative (GGDI), to change the narrative in the state’s educational sector. This partnership led to the sponsorship of a four-week free coaching class for 1635 SS2 students across 18 centers in the nine local governments that make up Oyo South Senatorial District.
The effort resulted in the payment of WAEC fees for 54 students and cash awards for three outstanding students. Senator Alli further instituted a scholarship fund for any of these students with outstanding WAEC results in higher institutions of learning.
Senator Alli’s support for education extends to the facilitation of computer sets, power generating sets, solar panels/inverters, and furniture to Ansar-ud-deen High School I, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, and Methodist Grammar School in Sagaun, Igboora.
Acknowledging the crucial role of the police in ensuring citizen safety and security, he donated a borehole to Mokola Police Station, three solar inverters to Sango Police Station, and provided infrastructures for Mapo Divisional Police Station. His commitment to developing his community is evident in his various initiatives to support the police force and improve the lives of his constituents.
His dedication to the welfare of the people extends to economic empowerment and job creation. His support for traders, widows, and various associations through donations of food items and financial assistance is a testament to his commitment to reducing economic hardship. By providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and engaging youths in productive ventures, he is creating a pathway for economic growth and development in the district.
Senator Alli’s dedication to reducing economic hardship for his constituents has led to various donations of food items to traders at different markets and widows across the senatorial districts. With a food bank of over N70 million naira, he has supported over 3000 widows and 3000 traders through the donation of food items within his first six months. Additionally, he provides regular financial support to individuals and associations.
In December 2023, he sponsored e-commerce and agribusiness training for no fewer than 1000 constituents, with each benefiting from startup capital as well as materials.
One of the key areas where he has made significant strides is in infrastructure development. He understands that without proper infrastructure, communities cannot thrive. That is why he has embarked on projects such as the installation of solar street lights, the construction of public toilets, and the provision of clean water through boreholes and deep wells.
These initiatives not only improve the quality of life for the people but also contribute to the overall development of the district.
Senator Alli has repaired several boreholes, dug deep wells in markets and public places, ensuring access to clean water for communities. He also donated generating sets to support and power these projects. In line with his promise to sink modern boreholes in each of the 99 wards in Oyo South Senatorial District in his first year, he has already completed 38, with others currently ongoing.
His commitment to improving public safety and security is demonstrated through the installation of over 200 solar street lights across the senatorial district and the construction of public toilets. He has also been very supportive to some communities in the repair of transformers to ensure access to electricity supply.
As the Senate Committee Chairman on Electoral Matters, Senator Alli recognizes the importance of free, fair, and credible elections as the bedrock of any thriving democracy. He has embarked on a transformative journey to revolutionize the electoral process in Nigeria. He has left no stone unturned towards achieving this goal through collaborations with stakeholders, townhall meetings, and retreats.
In the realm of governance, the lawmaker has demonstrated a collaborative approach. He understands the importance of working with stakeholders and engaging the community in decision-making processes.
Through townhall meetings and retreats, he ensured that the voices of the people are heard and their concerns addressed. This inclusive approach to governance fosters transparency, accountability, and effective representation.
Senator Alli donated a Toyota Sienna bus to the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in fulfillment of an earlier promise, while providing cash donations to numerous other groups for various projects. He has also engaged youths in different productive ventures while promoting sports and other great vocations to make them useful for themselves and society.
In a world where many politicians prioritise personal gain and self-interest, Senator Sharafadeen Alli stands out as a beacon of public service. His humility, promise-keeping, and genuine concern for the people he represents make him a respected and admired leader.
His leadership style is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society, and his tireless efforts serve as an inspiration for future leaders. With him in office, the people of Oyo South can be assured of a representative who will always prioritize their interests and work tirelessly to bring about positive change.
The people have witnessed firsthand the impact of his initiatives and the genuine care he has for the welfare of his constituents. His dedication to service goes beyond mere rhetoric; he takes concrete actions to address the pressing needs of the people he represents.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli is a trailblazer in service to humanity. His unwavering commitment, trailblazing efforts, and genuine concern for the welfare of his constituents set him apart as a leader who truly embodies the principles of public service. With his leadership, Oyo South is on a path towards progress and prosperity.
●Akeem Abas is Special Adviser on Media to Senator Sharafadeen Alli
