Musiliu Alade Aigoro, has declared his intention to represent Kosofe Constituency I at the Lagos State House of Assembly, citing his experience, academic qualifications, and grassroots engagement as key strengths.

Speaking during an interview with Ajasa-Info, Aigoro said he was born in Lagos and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, alongside Master’s degrees in Public Administration and International Studies.

He added that he is set to complete his Doctorate degree in Public Administration, specializing in Public Policy Analysis, within the next three to four months.

He further disclosed that he is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration, as well as a Fellow of the Mentoring and Career Development Institute of Nigeria.

He noted that his aspiration is rooted in competence and a strong commitment to service, emphasizing that anyone seeking public office must be qualified for the role.

Aigoro described himself as a community and opinion leader who has consistently intervened in resolving disputes and supporting residents across the constituency.

According to him, market men and women, transport unions including the NURTW, and other stakeholders frequently rely on him for conflict resolution and assistance.

He also disclosed that he has facilitated employment opportunities for several youths within the Lagos State Government and supported indigent students, including helping qualified candidates gain admission into the Lagos State University (LASU).

Highlighting his political trajectory, Aigoro said he has served the APC in several strategic roles, including Coordinator for the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Campaign Organisation in Kosofe (2019), Chairman of the campaign team for Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, Director of Security for the late Bayo Oshinowo Senatorial Campaign, Director of Special Duties for Tokunbo Abiru during the by-election, Director of Local Government Affairs in Sanwo-Olu’s campaign structure, and member of the APC State Screening Committee and subsequently the Electoral Committee during the last Local Government elections.

He said these roles reflect his loyalty and dedication to the growth of the party and demonstrate his readiness for higher responsibility.

Aigoro revealed that he is a former member of the Lagos State Audit Service Commission, an appointment by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noting that he used the position to positively impact lives, particularly through youth employment and empowerment, although he does not publicize many of his achievements.

The aspirant stated that his deep involvement in Kosofe politics has enabled him to understand the needs of residents across the constituency.

He noted that he has conducted needs assessments in areas including Ogudu, Ifako, Oworonshoki, Anthony, Mende, and Ojota, positioning him to effectively address local challenges.

He emphasized that his focus as a lawmaker would include lawmaking, oversight, and effective representation, with priorities centred on infrastructure development, upgrading of existing facilities, and ensuring that government policies translate into tangible benefits for the people.

Aigoro also pledged alignment with the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that while policies may take time to yield results, there is a need for interim support measures to cushion the effects of economic challenges on citizens.

He stressed the importance of youth inclusion, noting that young people play a crucial role in shaping modern governance, and added that he maintains close relationships with youths in the constituency to harness their ideas.

He also emphasized the importance of empowering women and supporting vulnerable groups, stating that such efforts are essential for overall societal development.

To support small businesses, Aigoro said he would leverage his influence to partner with financial institutions to provide funding alongside financial literacy training, noting that proper training is essential to ensure sustainability and prevent business failure.

He added that empowerment programmes under his leadership would be based on proper needs assessments to ensure they are impactful.

He described himself as an accessible leader, assuring constituents of an open-door approach and willingness to listen to their concerns. He also pledged transparency and accountability, stating that he would work with credible aides and establish structures to ensure effective governance.

On constituency projects, Aigoro explained that his approach would be guided by continuous needs assessments, noting that community needs are dynamic and must be addressed accordingly.

He identified unemployment, poverty, and inadequate healthcare services as major challenges facing Kosofe Constituency I and pledged to address them through policy initiatives, empowerment programmes, and strategic collaborations.

Speaking on his relationship with party leadership, Aigoro said Kosofe is fortunate to have influential leaders such as Otunba Bushura Alebiosu, Omoba Shosanya, and Chief Stephen Oyedele, whom he described as respected figures and father figures.

He acknowledged that while disagreements may occur, they do not translate into enmity, stressing that he maintains a good relationship with them and the party structure.

Aigoro noted that criticism is a natural part of politics, adding that constructive criticism helps leaders improve.

He emphasized that leadership requires decisiveness and accountability, noting that leaders must be willing to take responsibility for their actions and correct mistakes when necessary.

Appealing to party delegates and constituents, he urged them to support his ambition, citing his experience, grassroots connection, and track record of service.

He reiterated that he has consistently served the people even without holding elective office and remains committed to their welfare.

In conclusion, Aigoro urged residents of Kosofe Constituency I to remain calm and hopeful, assuring them that better days lie ahead and that meaningful progress can be achieved through collective effort.