Shagaya De, Irorun De: A Young Legislator’s Landmark
By Basheer Luqman Olarewaju
In the heart of Kwara State, a refreshing breeze of development sweeps through the vibrant and diverse Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency. At the helm of this transformative wave is one of the most resourceful, savvy, and visionary young politicians of our time, Rep. Muktar Tolani Shagaya. His ascent to the Federal House of Representatives transcends personal ambition and the legacies of his affluent background as the son of billionaire socialite Hajia Bola Shagaya; it symbolizes a beacon of hope for a constituency yearning for genuine change.
Embracing the thematic promises of “Heritage, Development, and Progress,” and under the inspiring slogan “Shagaya De, Irorun De”—which translates to “Shagaya arrives, ease comes”—Rep. Shagaya has redefined the essence of political leadership, legislative accomplishments, and accountable governance. Within a single year, he has demonstrated that true leadership lies not just in occupying a position, but in fulfilling the commitments made during the campaign. His dedication to community-driven development and grassroots engagement has solidified his reputation as a lawmaker who listens, a legislator who acts, and, above all, a leader who genuinely cares.
A Listening Leader: The First Ever Town Hall Meeting in Afon
In a refreshing departure from the norm, Rep. Shagaya commenced his tenure with an unprecedented town hall meeting in Afon, Asa Local Government, gathering concerned stakeholders from various sectors. Unlike many politicians who presume to know their constituents’ needs, Shagaya prioritized listening. This town hall meeting fostered open dialogue, where community leaders, local artisans, women, youths, and the elderly could express their needs, challenges, and aspirations.
This community-centric approach marks a significant shift away from the typical top-down model prevalent in Nigerian politics. Rather than imposing his vision on the people, Shagaya ensures that the projects and policies he champions resonate with the genuine desires and critical needs of his constituents. Whether focusing on education, infrastructure, healthcare, or economic empowerment, his methodology is simple: ask the people what they need, then work tirelessly to meet those needs. This embodies the essence of community development practices—empowering individuals to uplift themselves.
Infrastructure Development: Roads, Lights, and Water
Rep. Shagaya has left no stone unturned in addressing the pressing infrastructure deficits within his constituency. His initiatives in road construction have been timely and transformative, particularly in Asa, a local government area known for its agrarian communities. Enhanced rural road networks have significantly improved farmers’ ability to transport goods, boosting local commerce and reducing travel times between villages and urban centers while enhancing safety.
Equally impressive is his vision for improved public safety and quality of life. Shagaya has overseen the installation of over 500 solar streetlights across 29 wards in Ilorin West and Asa Local Governments, an initiative that not only enhances security at night but also improves accessibility for communities. During a recent event in Ilorin, he reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people rather than pursuing personal gain. Even his political adversaries have recognized his proactive leadership style and the undeniable significance of reliable lighting in enhancing safety, commerce, and social interactions within these communities.
Furthermore, the introduction of home solar lights has transformed the lives of over 300 households that were once reliant on unstable energy sources. This initiative stands out notably for its inclusivity, ensuring that beneficiaries are chosen objectively and without regard to political affiliation, while also encompassing individuals with disabilities.
Access to clean, potable water remains another cornerstone of Shagaya’s mission. Through the installation of over 50 motorized and solar-powered boreholes, he has provided communities long-struggling with unreliable water sources with clean and accessible water. As the Sustainable Development Goals emphasize, access to water is not merely a convenience; it is a matter of health, dignity, and fundamental development.
Education and Human Capacity Building
Rep. Shagaya’s commitment to sustainable development is clearly reflected in his prioritization of education. Recognizing it as the foundation of a progressive society, he has championed the construction of eight classroom blocks, providing essential learning environments for children previously crammed into dilapidated structures. His role as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education underlines this commitment; by investing in education, Shagaya is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for the next generation.
However, his dedication extends beyond infrastructure. Shagaya is equally invested in building human capacity and has facilitated various training programs to empower constituents with employable skills. Training sessions in fish farming, soap making, and media production have been implemented to foster self-reliance and economic independence. Additionally, local entrepreneurs have benefited from the distribution of Aso Oke materials, signaling a significant boost for those in the traditional weaving and fashion industries. Through these initiatives, Shagaya creates job opportunities and encourages local businesses, ensuring that his constituents are active participants in their own advancement rather than mere recipients of handouts.
Agricultural Empowerment
Given that Asa local government is primarily agrarian, Shagaya prioritizes agricultural support. In the past year, he has ensured that no fewer than 2,500 farmers receive essential fertilizers and sprays, empowering them to improve crop yields and bolster food security within the constituency. The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria in Asa Local Government encapsulated this effort, stating, “This initiative is not merely short-term relief; it is about fostering long-term agricultural sustainability that can lift entire communities out of poverty.”
Health and Welfare: Scholarships, Medical Outreach, and Cash Relief
A hallmark of Rep. Shagaya’s leadership is his understanding of the intricate connection between health and education. To promote both, he sponsors scholarships and covers school fees for underprivileged students, embodying the belief that no child should be denied an education due to financial constraints.
In healthcare, Shagaya has initiated medical outreach programs that have benefited over 3,000 individuals, providing essential medical consultations, medications, and minor treatments to constituents who might otherwise lack access to basic healthcare services. These efforts are executed equitably across the constituency, ensuring fairness and inclusivity. One poignant success story involved a patient who was regarded as a walking corpse due to critically high blood pressure—an initiative that saved her life among many others.
Through a Cash Relief Empowerment Program, Shagaya has also provided over ₦250 million in financial assistance to those in need, helping them regain stability and improve their circumstances. Whether supporting small businesses or assisting the disadvantaged, he demonstrates that leadership transcends the abstract realm of policy—it’s fundamentally about the people.
Legislative Achievements: 15 Bills in One Year
While his accomplishments at the constituency level are commendable, Shagaya’s contributions in the National Assembly deserve equal recognition. In just one year, he has sponsored 15 bills that address multiple sectors, from education and healthcare to infrastructure—all with the intent of enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians.
A Man of the People
Despite a demanding schedule, Rep. Shagaya remains intimately connected to his roots. He frequently visits grassroots communities, engaging directly with constituents, addressing their concerns, and celebrating their successes. This exceptional quality has endeared him to the population and solidified his reputation as a lawmaker who delivers on his promises.
While skeptics may have doubted his capacity to fulfill campaign commitments, Shagaya has not only met expectations but has far exceeded them. Within a single year, he has accomplished what many would anticipate over a full four-year term. His unwavering dedication to Heritage, Development, and Progress is instigating genuine change in Ilorin West and Asa, illustrating that with the right leadership, the future can indeed be brighter.
“Shagaya De, Irorun De”—with Rep. Shagaya, ease has arrived, and the journey towards sustainable progress has truly begun.
Basheer Luqman Olarewaju, a PRNigeria Fellow writes from Ilorin, Kwara State
[email protected]
