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- By Moji Danisa
Leadership is about people, putting them first, empowering them for a better life and striving to improve their overall standard of living.
When a leader advances the well-being of the people, acceptance follows as a natural and powerful reciprocation.
As Nigeria continues its quest for exemplary, selfless leadership, it remains true that leaders emerge from among the people. The leadership pool is filled with individuals refined by education, societal experiences, and personal resolve to shoulder the next mantle of responsibility.
At this moment, some states have begun searching for successors to lead them into greater heights of progress.
One such state is Oyo, blessed with one of Nigeria’s most accomplished governors. Naturally, Oyo residents are determined to secure the very best to sustain Governor Seyi Makinde’s legacy in 2027.
Makinde’s impressive developmental track record has set a high bar for his successor. However, many eyes are already set on one man with the integrity, vision, and proven capacity to take the baton – Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide, popularly known as OdidiOmo (meaning “A Special Child” wholesomely special in all ramifications).
For those unfamiliar with Oyo’s political landscape, the question may arise: Who is this man? But for his constituents, there is no uncertainty. They have witnessed his tireless commitment, democratic spirit, and humane leadership firsthand.
Why is OdidiOmo the name on everyone’s lips? The answer is clear: His track record speaks for itself.
*Education and the Future
Representing Ibadan Northwest/Northeast Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Olajide embodies modern governance. He holds a B.Sc. in Information Technology from Rutgers University, New Jersey, and boasts 25 years of professional experience in an international firm.
A brief online search reveals his extensive expertise as a bioinformatician with deep knowledge in human genomics, cybersecurity solutions, and advanced computing architecture.
His entrepreneurial prowess is equally noteworthy. As the CEO of Bentley Energy Nigeria Limited, his ventures in energy, oil, and gas are described as vast and impactful.
Given this robust background, it’s no surprise that OdidiOmo has excelled as Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity.
Yet leadership goes beyond technological expertise. It’s about delivering real benefits – what some call the dividends of democracy – and doing so equitably, transparently, and empathetically.
Hon. Olajide’s representation has been all-inclusive and focused on his constituents’ welfare and development. He remains committed to involving the people in governance and keeping them at the center of his initiatives.
In a recent prayer session with his constituents, OdidiOmo expressed gratitude for their unwavering support, crediting their backing as the driving force behind his numerous milestones since his election.
*Achievements
Is it impossible for Nigeria to achieve the same level of development as other nations?
“If Asia could do it before our eyes, we can match or surpass them,” Hon. Olajide said in an interview.
The House Chair on ICT and Cyber Security, highlighted key achievements over the past five years, including infrastructural projects, youth empowerment initiatives, and legislative contributions that have significantly improved lives.
A notable focus has been technology-driven education, recognizing it as the cornerstone of 21st-century development. One of his flagship initiatives is a comprehensive digital literacy and data protection training program that has benefited 600 youths in his constituency.
Under his leadership, IT centers have been established to train thousands in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other digital skills. Odidiomo’s belief in the power of tech literacy as a transformative tool drives his relentless investments in this sector.
His passion for education extends beyond digital initiatives. He recently purchased JAMB forms for over 200 underprivileged students, providing them with opportunities for academic success.
In addition to tangible projects like boreholes, solar-powered streetlights, and infrastructure, Olajide prioritizes sustainable development. He asserts that, like Asia, Nigeria’s path to greatness lies in consistent, tech-driven progress rather than short-term handouts.
*National Responsibility and Duties
OdidiOmo is proof that leadership responsibilities are best assigned based on merit rather than partisanship.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Information Technology and Cybersecurity, Hon. Olajide has been instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s digital sector. His efforts contributed to securing Gitex, a groundbreaking technology fair set to be hosted in Nigeria for the first time, this year. This event will showcase innovations, attract global investors, and forge strategic partnerships to boost the local tech ecosystem.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and the National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA) Gitex promises to be a transformative milestone for Nigeria’s tech industry.
Another significant achievement is the $2.09 million grant secured to expand Nigeria’s fiber optic infrastructure, enabling 90,000 kilometers of new backbone connectivity across the country.
Hon. Olajide represented Nigeria at the U.S.-Nigeria Technology Dialogue in Washington, D.C., alongside Minister of Communications Bosun Tijani, advocating for deeper technological cooperation and investments.
His commitment to cybersecurity and financial crime prevention is equally commendable. At a session with NITDA and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, Hon. Olajide emphasized the National Assembly’s power to allocate funds to remove Nigeria from the financial crimes grey list, calling for robust funding to meet international anti-money laundering standards.
On broader security issues, Olajide passionately advocates for adequate funding of the Nigeria Police. During the 2025 budget defense session, he criticized the poor release of funds, noting that only N25 billion out of the N60 billion allocated for 2024 had been disbursed.
“How do we expect the Nigeria Police to be ICT-compliant and competitive if we continue underfunding them?” he asked, calling for full budgetary support to enhance accountability and operational efficiency.
A tireless worker, Olajide continues to push the boundaries, travelling the world, forging alliances and collaborations for Nigeria in the tech sector.
*Political Contributions
Hon. Olajide is one of the few politicians in Nigeria driven by genuine purpose and ideology. He has remained with the people’s Democratic Party and stood firmly by Governor Seyi Makinde providing support and advice all the way.
He strongly supports grassroots growth and donated N10m to candidates at the last local government elections.
*The Right Man for the Job
As Oyo State prepares for the 2027 governorship race, political observers and constituents alike are placing Hon. OdidiOmo at the top of their list. His blend of integrity, visionary leadership, and unmatched work ethic makes him a beacon of hope for continued progress.
Indeed, all eyes are on Hon. OdidiOmo, a God fearing Muslim and inspiring leader poised to lead Oyo State into a new era of greatness!
