Gbodo Vows to Drive Development, Empowerment in Itire-Ikate: A Vision Rooted in Proven Impact

Gbodo Vows to Drive Development, Empowerment in Itire-Ikate: A Vision Rooted in Proven Impact

Lagos, Nigeria – May 1, 2025

As the race for the chairmanship of Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) gathers momentum, one aspirant, Gbeminiyi Amir Gbodimowo, fondly known as Gbodo, is standing tall on the strength of a proven track record and a bold vision for grassroots transformation.

Gbodo, who previously contested in the last election cycle, has since gone on to deliver on key aspects of his original manifesto—particularly in the area of youth and women empowerment. In his words, “I picked one item from my 2019 manifesto—empowerment—and focused on delivering it. We have trained thousands, supported countless small businesses, and inspired a new generation of self-reliant youths.”

A Legacy of Impactful Empowerment

Over the past six years, Gbodo has spearheaded initiatives that have directly benefited more than 5,000 residents of Itire-Ikate and beyond. Through a combination of tech training, vocational education, and creative skills development, many young people have moved from unemployment to self-sufficiency.

“I established a large training centre in our LCDA where young people learn software development, tailoring, hairdressing, makeup artistry, videography, photography, and video editing. These are real, practical skills that people are using to earn a living today,” he said.

He emphasized that follow-up data from his programme shows that 1 in every 5 trainees has either started a business, opened a shop, or is earning an income from the skills acquired. “That’s over 1,000 success stories—and we haven’t even held office yet,” he noted.

Addressing Development Gaps in Constituency 2

Gbodo acknowledges the historical development disparity between Surulere Constituency 1 and 2, particularly in underserved areas like Itire-Ikate. While praising the efforts of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and the current Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Lanre Okunlola, for ongoing infrastructural strides, he noted that much more needs to be done—especially in flood control, drainage management, and road rehabilitation.

“Flooding remains a major issue in our area. We need a comprehensive drainage master plan and continued road works to improve the quality of life. Thankfully, 57 roads have been constructed recently, which gives the next chairman a good foundation to focus on social development and economic renewal,” he explained.

A Vision for Economic Renewal

Gbodo believes the future of Surulere and Lagos at large lies in economic diversification at the grassroots. His plan includes market support for women traders, startup assistance for young entrepreneurs, and training in emerging digital economies such as content creation, AI, and the creative arts.

“Not everyone can be a content creator, but they can be part of the value chain—video editors, sound designers, social media managers. These are the jobs of today, and we are preparing our youth for them,” he emphasized.

A Screening of Substance

Gbodo expressed satisfaction with the recent party screening exercise, describing it as “professional and thorough.” He praised the committee for its diligence and fairness, adding, “Politics is serious business, and they are taking it seriously. I thank them for screening aspirants based on records, not just rhetoric.”

A Call for Competence at the Grassroots

As he prepares for the next phase of his political journey, Gbodo is calling for leaders with capacity, integrity, and genuine commitment to service. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda cannot succeed without strong local leadership. Local governments must be engines of transformation, and I am ready to lead that charge in Itire-Ikate,” he declared.

With a campaign grounded in results and a clear plan for scale, Gbodo stands out as a frontrunner poised to transform promise into performance.