FOCUS AREA FOR THE INCOMING EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT AS INDICATED BY A CROWDFORCE SURVEY

The people of Ekiti state are civil service oriented, making regular payment of salaries important for effective movement of economic activities.

During the Pre-election Poll, we interviewed 4970 residents of Ekiti state and they gave their viewpoints on major focus areas for the incoming government.

Giving the options of Job creation, Education, Agriculture, Economy, Security, Health care, Power, Roads and Housing, 85% of respondents selected Job creation as the main focus area of the incoming government. A popular feedback was that there are not enough economic opportunities available for graduates in the state aside from the civil service. They also think that there should be an investment forum organized to show the strengths of the state in agriculture and mineral resources in order to attract investors who would develop their industrial sector and create more job opportunities. Many believe it is the cure to the increasing crime rate in the state. Much emphasises was also placed on Job security and regular payment of salaries by the government as it is the bedrock of economic operations in the state.

Education was ranked as the second focus area for government at 55%. Most respondents press against increased tuition rates in learning institutions especially the government owned institutions. They advocate for free education and upgraded educational facilities in the universities. They believe more investment should be made in the education sector to boost the quality of education in order to make the institutions an attractive destination for students across Nigeria.

Next was Agriculture at 45%. Most respondents feel that the economic potential of this sector has been neglected despite the high soil fertility in the state. Rice production and yam were highlighted by many as a potential source of export income to the state due to its high demand in Nigeria. Also, regular food supply should be a major target by the incoming government so as to reduce price hikes of agricultural produce. More so, this sector will create economic opportunities to the citizens especially the youths.

The Economy ranked 4th with 35%, the people are clamouring for a more diversified economy. Knowing the agrarian nature of the state, they believe more investments in other agricultural value chain production will boost output and exports. This will increase industrial and economic activities in the state.

Security ranked fifth at 32%. The people highlighted that the government should focus on securing the life and property of its citizens and residents. They also pointed out the increased spate in robbery, kidnapping, Fulani herds men attacks on their farms and life. There should be adequate investment in security for the state to ensure safety for all, so that the people will live in peace.

Healthcare and Power tie at 25%. The health sector in Ekiti state needs upgraded equipments and facilities in order to improve service delivery. The people also advocate for increased welfare for health workers and more focus on maternal health especially by offering free beds to expectant mothers in the delivery room. For power, many respondents complained about irregular power supply for a long time, this disrupts economic activities and innovation.

Lastly, about 2 % emphasised housing as a focus area of the government. They propose that housing should be subsidised and should be regulated by the government. Also there should be a housing scheme that will provide modern and affordable housing for the people.

Overall, the next government needs to provide adequate social amenities as listed above, as this will provide more economic opportunities for the people and development in the state.

Written by: Tonia Omenyi

Edited by: Kelechi John-Ogbuku & Noka Adejoh

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