Akintunde Urges Nigerians To Remain Hopeful Amid Ongoing Reforms

In this interview, Tope Akintunde, the convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement, a powerful political organization in Ogun State, argues that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform initiatives are still the best for Nigeria. Additionally, he asserts that in the January 2027 poll, Senator Solomon Adeola and Prince Dapo Abiodun are the best contenders for Ogun State Governorship and Ogun East Senate, respectively. James Sowole provides quotes.

What has been your political path thus far as an Ogun State grassroots activist?

I am Armstrong “Tope Akintunde,” a member of the late Fowodara’s family from Araromi, Iperu-Remo, Ogun state. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), which is now known as the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

In 2009, I started working for a real estate company in Lagos called Suru Group Limited, where I was the Executive Director of Special Projects. In addition, I was Aerofield Homes Limited’s Managing Director and CEO at the same time. I’ve had the honor of going to a number of conferences, training sessions, seminars, and real estate and project management courses in Nigeria, Europe, and the US throughout the years. I most recently finished an executive real estate program at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School in the United Kingdom.

I am a Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CRM/CEP), an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), and a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA). Among other honors, the European-American University, in partnership with the Kingdom of Bunyoro-Kitara and the Republic of Panama, recently granted me an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration and Corporate Governance.

Providing Nigerians with quality, affordable housing has always been my passion, and it still serves as the foundation for our business.

On the other side, politics offers me another way to give back to my community. I was drawn to active political activity by my enthusiasm for public interaction and grassroots mobilization.

Nigeria is now dealing with security and economic issues. Can the policies of President Bola Tinubu provide the intended outcomes?

Every country goes through challenging times. This also applies to Nigeria. I think the nation is on the road to recovery, even though the current economic and security issues are serious. In order to combat insecurity, bolster the economy, and reposition Nigeria for long-term growth, President Bola Tinubu is working nonstop. In the short term, these reforms might be challenging, but I have no doubt that history will recognize them as essential steps in rebuilding the nation.

No Nigerian is content with the current struggles, especially the insecurity, yet significant reforms take time.

Rome was not built in a day, as the saying goes. I want Nigerians to continue being encouraging, unified, and optimistic. I think the sacrifices being made now will eventually benefit the country.

How do you manage business and politics as Chairman of Aerofield Homes Limited and Convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement?

I think having a clear purpose is the key to success. I work in real estate, but my passion is public service in politics. By God’s blessing, both my business and political movement are now well-known. I began both travels at a young age. The two don’t seem to conflict to me. Because each has a distinct function, they complement one another. I can make an economic contribution through business, and I can make a social and political contribution through politics. Successful management of both has been made possible by careful preparation, self-control, and dedication.

What gave rise to the Yayi Progressives Movement?

The movement has undergone several phases of political involvement. It started out as the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda (DACA), which was created to aid Governor Dapo Abiodun’s reelection ahead of the 2023 general election. The platform evolved into the Omoluabi Movement to incorporate more expansive progressive ideas centered on inclusivity and people-oriented leadership as political circumstances changed and consultations grew. It later evolved into the Yayi Progressives Movement after strategic partnerships with a number of political support organizations, including artisan associations around Ogun State.

This change was intentional. It demonstrates our commitment to creating a more robust grassroots political platform that can unite people in Ogun State behind a common progressive vision.

What sets the Yayi Progressives Movement apart from other Ogun State political organizations?

With more than 50,000 members spread throughout the state’s 20 local government districts, the Yayi Progressives Movement has developed into one of Ogun State’s biggest grassroots political organizations.

We are strong because we are inclusive. Under one platform, we unite young people, women, professionals, students, artisans, community leaders, and party supporters.

Beyond politics, we offer chances for civic engagement, leadership development, and mentoring, especially to youth. We are still dedicated to supporting every APC candidate and encouraging democratic engagement and grassroots involvement across Ogun State.

What are the chances of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the APC’s nominee for the Ogun East Senatorial seat in the upcoming general election?

Governor Dapo Abiodun has a very good chance, in my opinion. His accomplishments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic growth are self-evident given his nearly eight years of service to Ogun State. His approach to leadership has been inclusive, consultative, and results-oriented throughout the entire state. By moving to the Senate, he will be able to maintain Ogun’s national representation while solidifying the progress made during his administration.

The rise of Senator Solomon Adeola as the APC’s favored candidate for governor has drawn criticism from the opposition. How do you respond?

Every opposition party has the right to voice its views. Presenting the best candidate to the Ogun State populace is still our top priority, though. Since Ogun State was established more than 50 years ago, Yewa has never produced a governor. Many think that by endorsing a suitable candidate from that axis, 2027 offers a chance to advance justice, equity, and inclusivity. Senator Olamilekan Adeola’s legislative background and dedication to public service have proven his competency. I think he has the ability, background, and leadership skills needed to effectively run Ogun State.

What makes Senator Adeola unique for the role?

Senator Adeola blends administrative skill, grassroots appeal, and legislative expertise. He has established a reputation for responsible resource management, infrastructure development, and effective representation during the course of his years in public office. Economic development, industrial growth, infrastructure revitalization, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment are at the core of his agenda for Ogun State.

His capacity to establish solid ties throughout the state while bringing disparate political interests within the APC together is equally significant. He has the leadership, vision, and experience I think Ogun State needs to reach new heights.

What message do you have for Ogun State residents?

As members of the All Progressives Congress, we are dedicated to continuing to mobilize support for democratic development and good administration. The Yayi Progressives Movement will keep growing its grassroots involvement throughout the state, promoting policies that support sustainable development and encouraging increased political participation. I implore Ogun State residents to continue being peaceful, cohesive, and dedicated to the advancement of our beloved state. By working together, we can create a more prosperous Ogun where every neighborhood benefits from growth.