Former Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture in Lagos State, Pharm (Mrs) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, has emphasized the urgent need for recreational and vocational facilities to support youths in the Alimosho Federal Constituency. As a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akinbile-Yussuf highlighted that Alimosho, being the largest local government area in southwestern Nigeria, requires federal assistance to tackle critical challenges affecting its residents.
Addressing Poverty and Development Gaps
Akinbile-Yussuf pointed out that despite its size, Alimosho faces significant poverty issues. She stressed the importance of empowering the community by attracting federal government interventions. "Alimosho is the largest local government area in Lagos State but poor. There is therefore the need to empower and lift the poor by attracting federal government intervention in such a large council area like ours," she stated.
Proposed Solutions for Youth Empowerment
The ex-commissioner proposed specific projects to enhance youth development, including entertainment centers and technology hubs. "For instance, there is a need for entertainment centre and technology hub in Alimosho where young persons can enjoy leisure, network and help in using technology to solve problems," she explained. She acknowledged federal efforts but called for more interventions to improve living conditions.
She further advocated for each of the six council areas within Alimosho to have dedicated projects, such as vocational zones and recreational facilities, to unite communities. "What we have now are numerous malls or shopping centres and eateries and they cannot be pass off as recreational centres that could even attract tourists," Akinbile-Yussuf noted, underscoring the inadequacy of current amenities.
Political Aspirations and Past Achievements
Akinbile-Yussuf, who initiated the Moremi Goodwill Project in 2011—a multimillion naira empowerment program for artisans, traders, and community projects—hinted at potential future political involvement. "I am going to throw my hat in the ring whenever the need arises because my strides as a commissioner in charge of four different ministries in Lagos State has encouraged me to further assist the grassroots by serving my people and seek further development of Alimosho," she revealed.
Reflecting on her tenure, she cited key accomplishments, including the creation of the Lagos State Youth Policy, Ibile Youth Academy, a disability fund, a youth center in Mosan, and the establishment of two secondary schools. "Therefore, my aspiration for better life for people of Alimosho has not diminished even our years after I left public office as a commissioner and I will continue to advocate for interventions in Alimosho for the good of residents," she concluded.
