While declaring his intention at Eagle's Square,Atan , Ijebu North -East local government area of Ogun State on Tuesday, Oredipe said he was stepping forward with “humility, conviction and a resolute sense of purpose” to serve the people of the Gateway State.
He stated that his ambition was rooted in the desire to build on the achievements of past administrations while accelerating progress across all communities.
The aspirant paid tribute to former Governors including Bisi Onabanjo, Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, Ibikunle Amosun, and the incumbent governor Dapo Abiodun for laying foundations for development in the state.
“These leaders prepared the stage,” he said, adding that “our responsibility now is to quicken the pace and ensure prosperity reaches every doorstep.”
Oredipe also acknowledged the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party’s National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda for their guidance. According to him, the party’s support has helped keep Ogun State development vision alive.
Speaking on his professional background, Oredipe said his experience, including work with the World Bank, has equipped him with the tools needed to deliver structural reforms.
“I stand not as a global expert, but as a son of the soil who understands that lasting change requires both structure and determination,” he said.
He noted that Ogun State stands at a strategic turning point with plans for major ports and expanding industrial clusters.
“With three major ports in Olokola,Ewekoro,and Ijebu-Ode on the verge of becoming realities, we are poised to become West Africa’s leading trade corridor,” he stated.
Outlining his policy direction, Oredipe stated three core pillars, visibility for every community, economic value for the grassroots and accountability in governance.
“No village should go unnoticed,” he said. “Development will be based on needs, not relationships.”
The aspirant promised to accelerate industrialisation, improve education and healthcare, secure industrial and agricultural clusters and equip young people with modern skills.
“Our youth will be empowered with opportunities, not empty promises,” he added.
He called for the support of party faithful and residents across the state.
“The best days of Ogun are ahead. Together, we will build a government that listens, that sees the people and that delivers,” Oredipe said.
In his address, the Chairman of Ijebu North East Local Government, Foluso Badejo, described Oredipe as a forthright leader with a strong vision and track record of service.
According to him, the aspirant’s experience working closely with Governor Dapo Abiodun and his current engagement with the World Bank set him apart among other contenders.
“Dr Oredipe is very forthright and visionary. He has worked with Prince Dapo Abiodun, who holds him in high esteem. Being recognised by the World Bank is not a small feat,” Badejo said.
The council chairman commended Oredipe’s courage in joining the governorship race despite the growing list of aspirants.
“I am proud of the courage you have shown to step forward. Irrespective of how many people are aspiring, you have proven you are worthy to be the next governor of Ogun State,” he added.
Meanwhile, retired Director of Agriculture in Abuja, Deola Tayo, praised Oredipe’s professional pedigree and impact at both national and international levels.
Tayo revealed that he worked closely with the aspirant during their time at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
“He was my senior professional colleague at the ministry and made a great impact while serving there.Because of his capacity and performance, he rose to become a World Bank director in Sierra Leone and Nigeria.”
Tayo noted that Oredipe’s grassroots connection and governance experience make him well suited for leadership.
“He understands governance from the national and international levels, and he remains a grassroots man. That is the kind of person we need at the helm of affairs in Ogun State,” he said.
He added that the state requires leaders who understand systems and can deliver meaningful impact.
“We need individuals who understand governance and can transform ideas into measurable results. Oredipe has demonstrated that capacity.”
