The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency I, Waheed Akintunde, has pledged to work towards making Oshodi a safer and more economically attractive community if elected.

Akintunde made the pledge in Lagos during a walkshow and the grand finale of a football tournament he organised for youths in the constituency.

He said his priority would be to promote initiatives capable of changing the perception of Oshodi and attracting greater economic and social activities to the area.

“I will change the perception of visitors and tourists about Oshodi and work to project the positive side of the constituency.

“Oshodi would no longer be associated with insecurity or activities capable of discouraging residents, visitors and investors,” he said.

The ADC candidate said youth empowerment would form a major part of his proposed development agenda for the constituency.

He said more youths would be equipped with practical skills and tools that could enable them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

“I will ensure that more youths in Oshodi acquire practical skills that can enable them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

“My approach is to teach the youths how to fish, rather than merely giving them food.

“I will equip them with the necessary skills and tools to earn a sustainable living,” he said.

Akintunde also said he would promote sporting activities as a means of discovering talents and engaging youths positively.

According to him, regular youth-oriented programmes would provide opportunities for young people to develop their talents while keeping them productively engaged.

“We must use sports, education and skills acquisition to create opportunities for our young people and give them reasons to believe in their future,” he said.

He said his proposed representation would focus on initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic wellbeing of residents of Oshodi-Isolo.

Akintunde urged residents, particularly youths, to support programmes promoting peace, enterprise, education and community development.

He said achieving a safer and economically vibrant Oshodi would require collaboration among residents, community leaders, government agencies and the private sector.

“We can build the Oshodi we desire through collective responsibility, responsible leadership and programmes that directly improve the lives of our people,” he said.

The candidate also pledged to support initiatives aimed at improving the image of Oshodi and creating an environment conducive to businesses and tourism.

He said the football tournament was organised to promote unity, sportsmanship and youth engagement within the constituency.

Akintunde urged youths to remain peaceful and shun activities that could undermine the development and security of the community.

“Our youths are our greatest assets, and we must provide them with opportunities to become productive citizens and future leaders,” he said.

He urged youths, residents and eligible voters in the constituency to support his candidacy, promising to justify their confidence if elected.