The Oyo State Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. (Dr) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country and unite in the pursuit of peace, security and economic prosperity.
Alli, in an Independence Day message issued on Thursday, October 1, 2026, said Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers and recommit themselves to nation-building.
He said the challenges confronting the country could be overcome through responsible leadership, patriotism and collective action, urging Nigerians to remain united and support efforts aimed at building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s administration deserves the cooperation and support of Nigerians as it implements reforms designed to reposition the economy and establish the foundation for sustainable development.
“Independence Day is not merely a celebration of freedom from colonial rule; it is a solemn reminder of our collective responsibility to preserve, strengthen and improve the Nigeria handed over to us by our founding fathers. We must never lose faith in Nigeria. Despite the challenges confronting the nation, our country remains endowed with enormous human and natural resources capable of making it one of the most prosperous nations in the world,” he said.
Alli also called on Nigerians to support what he described as the Federal Government’s efforts to move the country beyond economic reforms and stabilisation towards increased production, investment and shared prosperity.
Turning to the political situation in Oyo State, the APC governorship candidate appealed to residents to support President Tinubu and other candidates of the party in the 2027 elections.
He said an APC-led government in Oyo State would create an opportunity for stronger coordination between the state and Federal Government in implementing development initiatives.
Alli said his aspiration to govern Oyo State was driven by a commitment to provide purposeful, inclusive and people-centred leadership.
He listed education, security, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, youth empowerment, economic development, improved welfare and local government autonomy among the areas his administration would prioritise if elected.
According to him, Oyo State possesses significant potential in agriculture, commerce, industry, tourism and human capital, but deliberate policies would be required to convert those resources into meaningful opportunities for the people.
Alli stated, “We are seeking the mandate to build an Oyo State where our children can receive quality education, our farmers can produce without fear, our young people can find opportunities and our communities can benefit from meaningful infrastructure. Our campaign is not about political power for its own sake. It is about service, development and restoring greater confidence in the ability of government to improve the lives of our people.”
The APC candidate further appealed to members of the party across the 33 local government areas and 351 wards in Oyo State to close ranks and work together for the success of all APC candidates.
He said the party’s senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly candidates should be seen as members of one political team committed to advancing the interests of Oyo State.
Alli congratulated President Tinubu, the Federal Government, governments at all levels and Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary.
He also prayed for peace, security and prosperity across the country, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to the collective task of nation-building.
