Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient, expressing confidence that Nigeria's economic challenges would be surmounted in due course.
This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan.
Senator Alli made this assertion during his recent three-day tour of the Ibarapa Zone, aimed at engaging with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), youths and community leaders.
He had embarked on the tour in response to an invitation from APC leaders in Ibarapa towards fostering unity within the party.
The tour also provided platform for discussing pressing national issues with stakeholders from the three local governments in the zone: Ibarapa East, Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North.
Addressing APC Zonal leaders, Senator Alli emphasised the importance of grassroots engagement during times of national economic distress.
He stated that open dialogue between political leaders and the people was essential for tackling Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges.
"We are in a difficult time as a nation, but we must not lose hope. The APC remains committed to finding solutions to these economic difficulties.
"This can only be achieved by working together and understanding the specific needs of each region. I am optimistic that there is going to be light at the end of the tunnel," Alli said.
The lawmaker assured the leaders that the President Bola Tinubu administration was working tirelessly to stabilize the economy, pledging to continue advocating for more beneficial policies.
Earlier, Chief Timothy Jolaoso, the APC Zonal leader in Ibarapa, had expressed appreciation to Senator Alli for always being responsive to the needs of the zone.
He commended the senator’s achievements over the past 15 months and described him as a representative with an unwavering commitment to the people.
Jolaoso, speaking on behalf of the party leaders, sought clarification on the Federal Government's efforts toward addressing the nation's economic challenges.
In his meeting with local APC leaders, Senator Alli emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration, stating that the party’s success in future elections depended largely on grassroots cohesion.
He urged party members to put aside their differences and focus on working together for the betterment of the community and the nation.
"It is essential that we remain united, especially during these challenging times. Our strength lies in our ability to work together, and division will only hinder the progress we all seek for our communities and our nation," Alli said.
During his tour, Senator Alli also met with community leaders where he listed his achievements over the past 15 months, assuring them of his commitment to implementing more people-oriented projects in Ibarapa.
He stressed the need for local and state government interventions to mitigate the impact of the economic crisis on the lives of rural dwellers.
"The economic challenges facing our country have hit rural areas like Ibarapa the hardest. We must advocate for increased investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and education to revitalize the local economy and create jobs for our youth," Alli said.
Senator Alli noted that while the federal government continues its national reforms, addressing the economic challenges at the local level was crucial to alleviating the difficulties faced by everyday citizens.
He reassured the people of Ibarapa that their concerns were being heard and that he would advocate for their interests at both the state and national levels.
In his interaction with youths during the tour, Senator Alli stressed the vital role played by youths in shaping the future of Nigeria.
He acknowledged the frustrations many young people experience due to unemployment, urging them to stay hopeful while actively engaginh in politics and community development.
"Job creation is a top priority, but we must also equip our youths with the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in today’s economy.
"I am working with stakeholders to bring more vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially in agriculture, where Ibarapa has immense potential," he said.
Senator Alli encouraged youths to take advantage of existing government programs designed to support students, small businesses and agricultural ventures.
He reiterated that sustainable development in Nigeria can only be achieved through the active participation of young people.
The lawmaker reassured the people of Ibarapa that their voices were heard, saying he remain committed to addressing their concerns at every level.