2027: Oyo APC guber aspirant proposes credit culture revolution for artisans, traders
A leading aspirant seeking the All Progressives Congress ticket to contest the Oyo State governorship seat Dr Adewale Kolapo Kareem, popularly called AKK, has said that if given the chance,
- From Yinka Adeniran, Ibadan
A leading aspirant seeking the All Progressives Congress ticket to contest the Oyo State governorship seat Dr Adewale Kolapo Kareem, popularly called AKK, has said that if given the chance, he would move the state from its current loan status to a legacy credit culture revolution.
He said he would embark on this legacy because of his observations that too many small businesses struggle, not because they lack ideas, but because they lack access, structure, and opportunity.
He said, "My people of Oyo State, from Ibadan to Ogbomoso, from Oke-Ogun to Ibarapa, I speak to you today not just as an APC Oyo state governorship aspirant, but as someone who believes deeply in your potential.
"Too many hardworking men and women wake up every day with dreams, but without the support to bring those dreams to life. Too many small businesses struggle, not because they lack ideas, but because they lack access, structure, and opportunity.
"What I am proposing is not just loans, it is a new way of thinking. A system that gives our people a fair chance, promotes responsibility, and opens the door to a more secure and prosperous future.
"As Oyo State approaches the defining moment of 2027, one truth is clear: the future of governance must be built on ideas that work. Sustainable development cannot rest on temporary interventions; it must be anchored on systems that endure."
The educationist said he would introduce a transformative initiative that will move the people from short-term support to long-term prosperity, a technology-driven credit scoring system designed to power financial inclusion and accountability across our state.
"I am committed to introducing a transformative initiative that moves us from short-term support to long-term prosperity, a technology-driven credit scoring system designed to power financial inclusion and accountability across our state.
Read Also: Three NWC members dropped as APC re-elects Yilwatda, Basiru
"Having lived and worked in environments where technology drives governance and economic systems, I have seen how structured innovation can transform societies. Technology is not just about devices; it is about systems that ensure efficiency, transparency, and measurable progress.
"Across the world, nations have leveraged it to improve governance, reduce inefficiencies, and empower citizens. Oyo State can and must do the same.
"At the heart of this vision is the AKK House, an innovation hub that will catalyze technological advancement, skills development, and economic empowerment. It will be a place where ideas are nurtured, talents are developed, and opportunities are created, especially for our young population, who represent the greatest asset of our state.
"One of the flagship initiatives of the AKK House is the provision of interest-free loans to support individuals and small businesses across all regions of Oyo State. But beyond access to funding, we are introducing a critical layer that has been missing in many well-intentioned programs: a structured credit culture.
"Through a technology-driven credit scoring system, we will: encourage responsible borrowing, track repayment transparently, build trust within the financial system, promote financial literacy across communities, reduce default rates, and ensure sustainability
"This system will allow every beneficiary to build a financial identity, one that rewards discipline, integrity, and commitment. It is how we move from a cycle of dependency to a culture of empowerment. We are not just giving loans; we are building a system that sustains wealth.
"Inspired by successful models in advanced economies, this initiative will ensure that our people understand the value of credit, the importance of repayment, and the opportunities that come with financial credibility. It will open doors not just for today but for the future, creating pathways to larger investments, business expansion, and economic stability.
"The success of this initiative will be driven by collaboration, transparency, and accountability. With the involvement of key stakeholders and the support of our communities, we will deploy technology to monitor progress, provide guidance, and ensure that no one is left behind.
"In the final analysis, the true test of leadership is not in promises made, but in systems built and sustained. The vision to establish a credit culture in Oyo State is more than a policy; it is a generational strategy to redefine how we think about opportunity, responsibility, and growth.
"With technology as our backbone and accountability as our guiding principle, we can build a state where every citizen, regardless of background, has the structure and support to succeed.
"This is the Oyo state we can build together.
This is the future within our reach. And with the right ideas, the right leadership, and a shared commitment, that future is not only possible, but also inevitable."
