BENIN – The Asue/Ogie Campaign Management Council has released the manifesto of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, with a promise to create and expand job opportunities through economic development initiatives that target various sectors from agriculture to the creative industries. The document also promised to develop and enhance training programmes that would equip unemployed Youths with the skills necessary for today’s job market. Tagged: “Pathway to Prosperity For All,” the manifesto contained the PDP candidate’s plans for security, women and youth development, education, agriculture and food security, rural and community development as well as strategies to uplift the standard of living in Edo State. Other issues highlighted in the document include: care for the elderly, respect for traditional and religious institutions; industrialisation, care for children and the vulnerable in the society, harnessing the importance of the diaspora for better working relationships that would foster development in all parts of the state. It stated that with the “creation of platforms for active participation in the state development, recognising the valuable skills, perspectives and investments, it said Ighodalo is poised to engender an environment of collaboration and mutual respect that would take the state to higher heights.
Laying emphasis on youths, the document said: “You are the leaders of today, not the future. We will actively support and invest in your potential. We commit to enhancing educational opportunities, paying bursary to qualifying students, expanding job training programmes, and fostering an environment where your innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit can thrive. “We will champion your rights, respect your voices, and ensure your equal participation in all aspects of society. We commit to creating policies that’ll safeguard your health, advance your education, and promote your economic well-being.” The document further promised “to provide the supportive role by creating an environment with access to healthcare, social services (including free public transportation), especially for the elderly and other community programmes tailored to their needs. “We will honour and support your critical role in shaping the minds of our future generations. We commit to fostering an environment that values education and provides the resources necessary for you to excel in your vital work. “We will continue to invest in your professional development and ensure that your compensation reflects the importance of your contributions. “We will continue to foster a culture of collaboration and respect, recognising the critical role you play in directly impacting the lives of our people at the grassroots level. “We will nurture your creative talents as essential contributors to our cultural vitality and economic diversity. We commit to supporting the arts and entertainment sectors through policies that facilitate creative expression, expand audience access, and foster both local and international collaborations. Ighodalo and Ogie who are now known as Ai/O2 further declared their willingness to cultivate an environment that would support growth and sustainability, develop policies that would enhance economic stability, provide incentives, and streamline regulatory processes to make Edo State the easiest state to do business.
