By Mercy Gadia Adi
… Lauds the 10th National Assembly Is Truly People-Centered
Hon. Davidson Kolawole Akinlayo, member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, has described the 10th National Assembly as a “people-centered” legislature committed to placing citizens’ interests above all else.
Entertaining questions in an exclusive interview Akinlayo stated, “It’s been a good House, a house that is people-oriented. Every activity is centered around the people, and we have made it a point to put their interests first.”
Addressing concerns about accessibility, Akinlayo insisted he remains reachable and get feedback from his constituents.
“I’ve been using one line since MTN came to Nigeria. Everyone knows my number,” he said. “Even if I become a governor tomorrow, I’ll still be reachable.”
He also emphasized his use of social media and a dedicated media team to update constituents. “Ekiti is a literate state. People follow what I’m doing even from the farm. We ensure transparency by keeping them informed through digital platforms.”
Among his key achievements, the lawmaker celebrated the completion of a long-abandoned inter-state road linking Otun in Ekiti to Ora in Osun State—an issue he had pledged to resolve during his campaign.
“That road had been abandoned for 24 years,” he said. “I promised the people I would complete it. By the grace of God, and with the help of the Federal Ministry of Works, the project is now fully done. I personally monitored it from start to finish.”
On employment, Akinlayo revealed that 25 graduates from his constituency have secured jobs in various federal agencies, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Centre for Management Development (CMD).
“For my people, employment is the key concern. Once they are gainfully employed, about 60% of their challenges are solved,” he said, adding that more job offers are expected in the coming days.
The lawmaker also announced a shift in his empowerment strategy. Moving away from material handouts, he is introducing a skills-based approach that includes vocational training and certification.
“That’s not real empowerment,” Akinlayo said. “We’ll train people in tailoring, plumbing, mechanics, and more—then empower them with tools and certificates. It becomes a source of livelihood, not a giveaway.”
As the National Assembly enters its recess, Akinlayo further said his focus will now shift back to direct community engagement, as a way of continued engagement,
“This is another period of engagement. The work continues, and we’re committed to doing even more for our people,” he concluded.