Akinjide Kazeem Akinola, who aspired to fly the All Progressives Congress (APC) ’s House of Representatives’ ticket in Egbeda/Ona-Ara federal constituency, has announced the commencement of a solar-powered streetlight initiative tagged “Light Up Ona-Ara,” aimed at installing over 350 solar streetlights across the Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking through his media assistant, Akintunde Yusuf, Akinola expressed his appreciation to leaders and members of the APC, stakeholders, women’s groups, and supporters across the federal constituency for their show of support, encouragement, and solidarity throughout the period of seeking the party’s ticket.
He noted that the overwhelming show of love and confidence received during the consultations and primary process further demonstrated the unity and strength of the party at the grassroots.
He further appreciated members of the campaign team, coordinators, Akinjide Ladies, and AKA volunteers for their sacrifices, loyalty, and peaceful conduct before and during the APC primary election, stressing that their dedication and commitment to the progress of the party remain commendable.
According to him, the experience has strengthened his resolve to continue contributing meaningfully to the development of the constituency and the welfare of the people irrespective of political outcomes.
He said the project reflects his commitment to grassroots development and community service despite the outcome of the House of Representatives APC primary election last weekend, in which he stepped aside to respect party decisions and hierarchy.
“Politics should not only be about elections or positions. My passion has always been about service to the people, and that commitment remains unchanged,” Akinola stated.
The “Light Up Ona-Ara” initiative is designed to improve security, enhance nighttime visibility, and support economic activities in underserved communities across the local government.
In his words, “Many of our communities still struggle with poor lighting and insecurity at night. This project is about restoring hope, improving safety, and creating an environment where businesses and residents can thrive,” he added.
Akinola disclosed that Phase I of the project will cover several communities within Ona-Ara Local Government Area, while Phase II will extend to Egbeda Local Government Area in the coming weeks.
The APC chieftain noted that the streetlight intervention is part of his broader community development agenda, which also includes educational support programmes, borehole projects, youth empowerment schemes, and other social interventions across Egbeda and Ona-Ara local governments, and which by extension will expand to other local governments in the state.
“The primary election may have come and gone, but my responsibility to the people did not end there. I will continue to support our communities in every way I can,” he said.
The APC chieftain further called on community development associations and landlords’ associations interested in benefiting from the initiative to formally indicate their interest by contacting 09076321882 and providing reasons why their areas should be considered.
The “Light Up Ona-Ara” initiative, if successfully implemented and properly maintained, is expected to serve as a model for grassroots and community development projects across Oyo State.
