By Gabriella Ogbu
Mr. Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s (LP) candidate for the governor of Edo State in the upcoming election on September 21st, has called for a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s educational curriculum. He argues that in today’s technology-driven world, a child who is not taught technological skills will be functionally illiterate.
During his visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Benin City, Edo State, Akpata shared his vision for the state with reporters. He highlighted the deplorable condition of schools in Edo State and vowed to prioritize educational improvements. He specifically mentioned his commitment to restoring Ambrose Alli University (AAU) to its former glory, describing the university’s current state as catastrophic.
“The condition of our schools is appalling, and it is crucial that we revamp the educational curriculum to include technology. A youngster who is not taught technology today is as good as functionally illiterate,” Akpata stated.
In addition to education, Akpata addressed the dire state of Edo’s infrastructure. He criticized the poor road conditions and promised significant improvements if elected. “We have a problem as far as the roads are concerned. The Labour Party has a plan and is here to save the day,” he declared.
Akpata also criticized the state government’s recent investments, calling the decision to build a five-star hotel and a museum errors in judgment. He provided financial context, citing the state’s monthly internal revenue and federal allocation as N16 billion, against a debt profile of N600 billion. According to Akpata, these funds could have been better spent on projects that directly benefit the people.
“My administration will focus on the needs of the people. Right now, the people are excluded from the governance process,” Akpata asserted. He pledged to restructure the health sector by building medical facilities in each of the state’s 192 wards to ensure access to quality healthcare for all residents.
Akpata also criticized the current administration, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, for its lack of visible legacy projects after eight years in office. He expressed strong support for local government autonomy, stressing that local government council members and chairs must reside in their districts to bring governance closer to the people.
“Local government autonomy is a sign of development as it brings the administration closer to the people. Council members and chairs must live within their local government areas to effectively serve their communities,” he emphasized.
While acknowledging the critical role journalists play in nation-building, Akpata praised their efforts and urged them to continue their good work. “Journalists contribute immensely to the growth of our nation. I urge you to keep up this good work and assist in raising our nation, which is currently in dire straits,” he concluded.
