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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Elections & Politics

ADC gov candidate rejects defection rumours, vows to win Osun poll

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Najeem Salaam, the African Democratic Congress candidate for Osun State governor, dismissed rumors of defection and vowed to win the upcoming election.
  • Salaam unveiled his '10-point Development Agenda,' focusing on workers' welfare, security, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment.
  • He expressed confidence in his experience and vision to surpass previous administrations and transform the state, emphasizing accountability and citizen-focused governance.

Najeem Salaam, the governorship candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, has firmly rejected speculation about him defecting to another party. Salaam declared his unwavering commitment to winning the August 15 governorship poll, stating his ambition is to lead the state with a clear vision.

I am in the race to win. I am well-educated, having read up to the doctoral level. I have reviewed the various achievements of the stateโ€™s administrations and identified gaps. I am working to fill those gaps.

โ€” Najeem SalaamSalaam asserts his determination to win the election and highlights his qualifications and approach to governance.

At the unveiling of his manifesto, titled 'My 10-point Development Agenda,' Salaam outlined his plans for Osun State. He emphasized a focus on workers' welfare and accountable leadership, alongside key sectors such as security, agriculture, education, infrastructure, and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) empowerment. Salaam, who holds a doctoral degree, stated his intention to address governance gaps by building upon previous administrations' achievements.

The time has come to rise together and build a future of greatness, opportunity, peace, and prosperity. Our state stands at a critical juncture; the decisions we make today will determine the kind of Osun we leave behind for our children and generations yet unborn. We can choose the path of stagnation or embrace the path of transformation. I believe the people of Osun are ready for transformation.

โ€” Najeem SalaamSalaam frames the election as a pivotal moment for Osun State, urging a choice for transformation over stagnation.

Salaam expressed his belief that Osun State is at a "critical juncture" and is ready for transformation. He presented himself as a candidate with a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to building a state that benefits all citizens. His agenda prioritizes valuing and respecting civil servants, supporting farmers to boost agricultural prosperity, empowering youths with skills and jobs, and ensuring accessible healthcare and education.

Today, I present myself before you with a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to building an Osun State that works for all. A state where workers and pensioners are valued, respected, and prioritised, because our civil servants are the silent engine of governance.

โ€” Najeem SalaamSalaam outlines his vision for a citizen-centric government that prioritizes public servants.

He further stressed the importance of creating an environment where businesses can flourish and investors find Osun attractive. "A state where transparency, accountability, and integrity define governance," Salaam stated, underscoring his commitment to ethical leadership. He aims to move the state away from stagnation towards transformation, believing the people of Osun are prepared for this change.

A state where transparency, accountability, and integrity define governance.

โ€” Najeem SalaamThis quote encapsulates Salaam's core principles for leading Osun State.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.