Leadership Is About Service – Deputy Speaker Bolanle Ajayi Speaks On Constituency Projects, Legacy, and Service To Yewa South (+photos)

Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly and member representing Yewa South Constituency, Hon. Bolanle Lateefat Ajayi, in an exclusive interview with Abu-Satar Hamed and Peter Olaniyan of StarTrend Int’l magazine and online platform, opened up on the recent commissioning of her constituency projects in Yewa South, Ogun State, and other sundry issues. Excerpts:

On Friday, September 19, 2025, you commissioned some constituency projects in Yewa South Local Government. What are these projects and where are they located?

With the grace of God and the support of the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Rt. Hon. Elemide, and my colleagues in the State Assembly, I was able to put in place some constituency projects for the benefit of my constituents.

The projects facilitated through my office, with the gracious approval and support of the Executive Governor of our dear Gateway State, His Excellency, Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, CON, include 20 units of open stalls at Sayedero Market, Ilaro Axis; 30 additional units of open stalls at Sayedero Market, Ilaro Axis; A block of two classrooms with office and store at Ipaja-Idogo; 20 units of open stalls at Farmers Market, Eredo, Ifekowajo Axis and 100 units of solar power installations across Yewa South State Constituency

What are the benefits of these projects to the people of Yewa South?

These projects are designed to touch the lives of ordinary people directly. The market stalls will boost commerce by giving traders a safe and decent environment to sell their goods, while the classrooms will improve learning for our children.

The solar installations will enhance security and extend business hours in many areas. Collectively, they will drive economic growth, education, and community welfare across Yewa South.

What’s your advice to the market women and other traders that will use the commissioned stalls?

My advice is simple: let us maintain the facilities. These stalls belong to the community, and if they are well kept, they will serve many generations.

I also encourage the traders to take advantage of the improved environment to grow their businesses and contribute to the local economy.

What was the inspiration behind the projects, particularly the one block of 2 classrooms with office and store at Ipaja-Idogo?

That particular project is very personal to me because I had part of my primary education in that school. I know the challenges that pupils and teachers face when classrooms are inadequate.

So, it was important for me to give back to the same institution that helped shape my foundation.

What role did Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State play in making these projects possible?

Like I said ealier, His Excellency, Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, CON, played a critical role in the realization of my dream to give back to my constituents. Without his approval and support, these projects would not have been possible.

At difficult stages of the construction, the governor intervened swiftly, and that is why today we are celebrating their completion.

Some people say constituency projects are often abandoned or poorly executed. How do you ensure the sustainability of yours?

That is a valid concern. For me, accountability is key. I worked closely with contractors and community leaders to make sure standards were met. By involving the community from the start, we create a sense of ownership, and that ensures sustainability.

What is your reaction to the Iyaloja of Ilaro, Chief (Mrs.) Risikat Idowu’s call to elevate Sayedero Market to an international standard?

I appreciate her greatly. Mama Risikat has been a pillar of support, and her words mean a lot to me. Her call to elevate Sayedero Market to an international standard is something I strongly align with, and I will continue to advocate for it.

Ogun State former Commissioner for Forestry, Engr. Ayo Olubori, in his speech at the commissioning noted that you are setting a new standard for lawmakers. What’s your take on that?

I am humbled by his kind words. For me, leadership is about service. If my little contributions inspire others, then it means we are collectively moving in the right direction. I believe every honourable member can impact lives in their constituencies, and I hope to see more of that across the state.

Do you see these projects as a stepping stone to bigger political ambitions?

My focus right now is on serving the people of Yewa South. Service comes first. Political ambition will take its natural course when the time comes, but for now, I want to be remembered as someone who gave back to her people and remained connected to her roots.

What legacy do you hope these projects will leave for future generations?

I want these projects to stand as a symbol of what is possible when leaders put people first. Whether it’s a child learning in a new classroom, a trader prospering in a new stall, or a community brightened by solar light, I want future generations to say, “This was the time Yewa South began to truly develop.”

What message do you have for the people of Yewa South who turned out massively for this event?

I am deeply humbled and grateful. The massive turnout shows unity and trust. I assure them that I will never take their support for granted. My commitment is to continue working tirelessly to bring more dividends of democracy to our constituency.