The Vice chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area and National Deputy Chairman, Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria, Hon..Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba has bagged the Citizen Leadership Excellence Award 2020 in recognition of her contribution to Qualitative Governance and Representation, Citizen Empowerment and social intervention in her Constituency and beyond.
During an exclusive interview with Citizen NewsNG in Lagos, the Ikorodu born Astute Politician and Women Advocate spoke about her Non-Governmental Organization, Citizen Empowerment and social intervention Programme, Politics and Governance.
When Asked Why She joined politics, Olabanji-Oba said: “My primary mandate is service to God and Humanity, to be a Voice to the Voiceless. “Though the word ‘Politics’ in Nigeria has been so bastadised but my definition of Politics is adding value to the lives of the people, being supportive and relevant, Politics is about the people; it’s the Peoples project”
While speaking on the state of the nation, Olabanji-Oba said: “Nigeria is a great Country blessed with enormous natural and human resources, I am very Optimistic that one day, Nigeria will be the best Country in the World.
The Politician cum renowned Real Estate ànd Media Consultant however emphasised that her major focus is to contribute to Nation building and change the narrative about governance in Nigeria for better. She urged the citizenry to shun ethno-religious, political differences and
blame-game but support the Government, rise up to the numerous challenges confronting the country, be a Solution Provider and raise the bar of governance.
“What we owe to mother earth is to leave it better than we met it”, Olabanji-Oba emphasised.
On what inspired her action towards citizen empowerment and social intervention, Olabanji-Oba recalled her late mother’s Philanthropic gestures. “My mother of inestimable value imbibe in me the spirit of giving, lifting the downtrodden out of hardships and good moral upbringing.To live a modest lifestyle but leave a good legacy for generations yet unborn. “She taught me to live and love everyone around me”. She gave a very large percentage of her wealth to catering and supporting the less privileged in the society and even donated to support government projects”.My mother was Alhaja (Chief) Sikirat Atinuke Olabanji Atobajaiye a.k.a Ma ja ya Lolo. She was the Iyasunna General of Nigeria and founder, Nuru Islam International Alasalatu of Nigeria.
Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba through her Non-Governmental Organization, The Shelter of Grace Foundation, Olabanji-Oba has issued support grants to young entrepreneurs, organised Vocational and Skills Acquisition Training and Presentation of Scholarships to indigent students across Lagos and beyond.
“The welfare of Women and the Youths are very dear to my heart. I always wish I could do more but I can’t do it all, but if we all put our resources to use, the country will be better and safer place”, she explained.
“I am always happy when I see the vibrancy and intelligence displayed by Nigerian Youths home and abroad”, She said.
she however called for mentorship and re-orientation of the young adults in making them the real assets they should truly be for Nigeria. Olabanji-Oba cited instances where Nigerian Youths have distinguished themselves and excelled in various fields across the world.
She further stated that Nigerians are unique and endowed creatures. As such the citizenry should Reunite and re-energize their efforts to build a greater Nation.
According to the Founder of the Shelter of Grace Foundation, the Non-Governmental Organization was primarily established to cater for Women, Victims of abuse, the less privileged citizens, training of young entrepreneurs in business development, self-actualization, Guidance and Counseling, Teenager mentorship and rehabilitation of drug abuse persons.
Olabanji-Oba advised Parents and Guidance to nurture and support their children’s dreams and aspirations. She also urged them to be their source of inspiration and role models.
While reacting to the Leadership Excellence Award presented to her by Citizen Communications Network, In an emotion-ladden voice, Olabanji-Oba said ” I am humbled, highly appreciative for the honour. Like I always say, every promotion calls for better service delivery.
She however restated her commitment to citizen empowerment and social intervention and qualitative representation.
“I was given a mandate based on promises, my watchword is Promise made, Promise kept. There will always be challenges, but be prepared. Be the best of yourself at all times”, Olabanji-Oba charges.
By Olabode Adeyeri @Citizen NewsNG