Ambassador Gbenga Clement Obilade on Wednesday declared open support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the reforms introduced by the administration require continuity beyond 2027.
Obilade made the declaration at a press conference held in Ibadan, where party leaders from Ona Ara and Egbeda, traditional rulers, women groups and youth representatives were present.
Speaking on the purpose of the gathering, Obilade said it had become necessary for stakeholders in the South-West to take a clear position as political activities gather momentum.
“We are here to state our position without any ambiguity. President Tinubu has started a process that is already reshaping key sectors. These reforms should continue. As a region, we have a responsibility to stand behind him,” he said.
Obilade, who is the Founder and Chief Executive of the Gbenga Obilade Foundation, also outlined ongoing community programmes under his organisation.
He said the foundation had expanded its scholarship support, mentorship activities and economic empowerment schemes across several communities in the South-West.
“Our focus is to give people the tools that help them create better outcomes for themselves. We have seen progress in education, small businesses and community health. When support reaches the right people, the results speak for themselves,” he said.
Obilade, who is the Bobagunwa of Akinjole Community in Egbeda commended President Tinubu’s policies in infrastructure, livestock development, agriculture, education financing and economic restructuring.
According to him, the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road, the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture, the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund are examples of decisions that will yield long-term benefits.
In his remarks, APC chieftain Alhaji Mojeed Olaoya lauded Obilade for taking a public stand. He said the region remained solidly behind the President.
“The decision to remove fuel subsidy was difficult, but it prevented a deeper crisis. The economy is adjusting and we must support the process,” he said.
APC youth leader, John Aremu, said the Tinubu administration had shown deliberate interest in youth participation.
He praised Obilade for engaging young people and urged youths across the state to support the government.
The Oyo South APC Woman Leader added that women in the district were firmly behind the President. She urged Obilade to continue supporting women-focused initiatives within the party.
Traditional rulers, senior party members and other stakeholders were all in attendance at the press conference.
