In a significant endorsement that could reshape Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has thrown his weight behind WeAfrica Rice, a flagship product of WeAfrica Limited. This endorsement came during a pivotal meeting yesterday, July 29th, with Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) gubernatorial candidate for Ondo 2024, at Obasanjo’s Hilton Top residence in Abeokuta.
The elder statesman, known for his discerning eye in matters of national development, didn’t mince words in his appraisal of Akingboye. “I’ve known OBA for decades, even in his youth,” Obasanjo remarked, using Akingboye’s popular acronym. “His passion for development and commitment to the masses’ welfare is unwavering.”
Obasanjo, recalling Akingboye’s 24-year-long aspiration to govern Ondo State, suggested that the time might be ripe for this ambition to bear fruit. In a moment of candid support, the former president offered prayers for Akingboye’s success at the polls, encouraging him to persevere with the assurance that “there will be light at the end of the tunnel.”
The meeting, which also included Akingboye’s running mate, Erelu Gbemisola Shekoni-Alabi, took an interesting turn when discussion shifted to WeAfrica Limited. Obasanjo expressed his admiration for the company’s vision, particularly its focus on agricultural products like WeAfrica Rice. He emphasized the potential of such initiatives in addressing food security, poverty alleviation, and hunger across Africa.
“The government should key into Otunba Akingboye’s vision through WeAfrica products,” Obasanjo advised, highlighting the broader implications of supporting local agricultural innovations.
Akingboye, a seasoned businessman with over 41 years of experience, expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s longstanding support and warm reception. The SDP candidate’s track record in the business world, coupled with his political aspirations, paints a picture of a multifaceted leader poised to bring transformative change to Ondo State.
Describing Akingboye, Obasanjo noted, “Otunba Akingboye is a man of uncompromising integrity with numerous accomplishments and remarkable track records in the business world.” This endorsement from a former president adds significant weight to Akingboye’s credentials as he approaches the Ondo 2024 gubernatorial race.
WeAfrica Rice, touted as one of the finest locally produced rice brands in Nigeria, stands as a testament to Akingboye’s commitment to quality and health-conscious products. The former president’s endorsement of this product could potentially catalyze increased patronage and support for locally produced agricultural goods.
In response to the warm reception and consistent support over the years, Akingboye expressed his deep appreciation to ‘Baba’ Obasanjo, offering prayers for the elder statesman’s longevity.
As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and food security concerns, the intersection of business acumen and political ambition, as exemplified by Akingboye and endorsed by Obasanjo, offers a glimpse into potential solutions. The coming months will reveal whether this blend of entrepreneurial spirit and political vision will resonate with the electorate of Ondo State and beyond.
With the Ondo 2024 gubernatorial race on the horizon, this high-profile endorsement may well prove to be a significant boost for Akingboye’s campaign, while also shining a spotlight on the potential of homegrown solutions to Nigeria’s agricultural challenges.”
