Hon. Olamide Davies Talabi (née Showunmi), an administrator, humanitarian and community leader, has expressed strong support for the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while commending the developmental strides of Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.
In this exclusive interview, Talabi, who is aspiring to represent Ogun Central Senatorial District in the Senate, speaks on her political ambition, her experience in governance in the United States, humanitarian initiatives, and her vision for youth empowerment, women development and economic growth in Ogun Central. Excerpts
Question: Can you introduce yourself to the people of Ogun Central?
Answer: I am Hon. Olamide Davies Talabi (née Showunmi), a proud daughter of Ogun State, a seasoned administrator, humanitarian, and community leader. I have over two decades of experience in governance and public service, including serving three times as a Commissioner in the United States. My career has been defined by service, institution building, and empowerment of vulnerable communities. My passion has always been to contribute meaningfully to the development of my people and to promote policies that uplift communities.
Question: What distinguishes you from other aspirants?
Answer: What distinguishes me is the combination of experience, compassion, and proven results. I have built working systems, funded empowerment programs, and established institutions that are transforming lives. My administrative background and grassroots engagement give me a clear understanding of the needs of our people, and I am prepared to serve effectively from the first day in office.
Question: How has your international exposure prepared you for the Senate?
Answer: Serving as Taxi Commissioner in the City of Newark in the United States exposed me to structured governance, regulatory oversight, and policy implementation. I supervised systems that ensured efficiency, transparency, and accountability. These experiences have given me practical knowledge on how well-organized institutions function and how policies can be implemented to benefit the public.
Question: Why should Ogun Central elect a woman at this time?
Answer: Leadership today requires both strength and empathy. Women naturally understand family struggles, economic realities, and the challenges faced by communities. As a woman, I bring maternal compassion alongside executive firmness. I believe this balance is essential for inclusive and effective leadership.
Question: What inspired your Senate ambition?
Answer: Through my humanitarian outreach and engagements with communities, I constantly see people struggling with basic necessities that should not be difficult to access. These experiences motivated me to move beyond charity and contribute directly to policymaking so that we can create long-term solutions for our people.
Question: Some claim you are not deeply rooted in Nigeria. What is your response?
Answer: That claim is simply not accurate. Despite my international engagements, I have remained deeply connected to Nigeria through humanitarian programs, investments, and continuous engagement with communities. My commitment to Nigeria and to Ogun State is evident in the initiatives I have supported over the years.
Question: What impact has your organization made in Nigeria?
Answer: Through our initiatives, we support petty traders and small-scale entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance to help grow their businesses. During festive seasons such as Christmas and Ileya (Eid al-Adha), we distribute food items including bags of rice to families to ease economic hardship.
Through the Miss Africa Tri State initiative, we have mentored over 250 women and distributed more than 35,000 sanitary products, clothing, and educational materials across Africa and shelters in the United States.
Question: You also founded a domestic violence shelter?
Answer: Yes. Through Women In Shelter and Environment (WISE), I pioneered the first Domestic Violence Shelter in Nigeria located in Oyo State. The facility accommodates up to 55 women at a time and provides protection, rehabilitation, and support for victims of domestic abuse. Protecting vulnerable women remains central to my mission.
Question: How does your track record compare with other aspirants?
Answer: Many aspirants speak about their intentions, but I present visible and measurable impact. My work includes empowerment programs, established institutions, and administrative leadership experience that demonstrate my commitment to service.
Question: Are you new in APC?
Answer: No, I am not new in the party. I currently serve as the Secretary of APC in America and was also a member of the Tinubu/Shettima campaign committee during the last presidential election. I remain committed to the progressive ideals of the party.
Question: How do you assess the performance of Ogun State under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun?
Answer: Governor Dapo Abiodun has demonstrated purposeful leadership and a clear vision for the development of Ogun State. His administration has focused on infrastructure development, economic growth, and improving the investment climate in the state.
One of the most transformative projects under his administration is the Agro Cargo International Airport, which is expected to enhance agricultural exports, attract investors, and position Ogun State as a major logistics hub in Nigeria. The Commercial Autoport project in Iperu is also designed to transform the automobile importation sector and create thousands of employment opportunities.
In addition, the governor has invested heavily in road construction and rehabilitation across the state, improving connectivity and supporting economic activities in different communities. His housing initiatives have expanded access to affordable housing while investments in education, healthcare, and security continue to improve the quality of life of the people.
Overall, Governor Abiodun’s administration is laying a solid foundation for sustainable development and positioning Ogun State as one of the most economically vibrant states in Nigeria.
Question: What is your assessment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu?
Answer: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated courageous and visionary leadership in steering Nigeria through a critical period of economic reform and national transformation.
Since assuming office, he has taken bold decisions aimed at correcting structural distortions that have affected Nigeria’s economic growth for many years. One of the most significant decisions was the removal of the fuel subsidy, which had consumed enormous national resources for decades. Although the reform initially presented challenges, it was necessary to redirect national resources toward development projects and long-term economic stability.
His administration is also implementing comprehensive tax reforms to strengthen government revenue and promote fiscal discipline. In addition, the ongoing Coastal Highway project is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s history and will significantly boost trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.
Another important step taken by the President is strengthening local government autonomy, which will ensure that resources allocated to local governments reach grassroots communities and promote development at the local level.
These reforms demonstrate that the administration is focused on building a stronger economic foundation for Nigeria’s future.
Question: Nigerians are facing economic challenges. What is your perspective?
Answer: Economic reforms often come with short-term challenges, but they are necessary to build a stronger and more sustainable economy. With time and proper implementation, these reforms will deliver long-term benefits and improve living conditions for Nigerians.
Question: What are your legislative priorities?
Answer: My legislative priorities include youth employment, SME development, protection of women and vulnerable groups, improvement in healthcare services, advancement in education, and infrastructure development across Ogun Central.
Question: How will you empower small businesses?
Answer: I plan to facilitate structured grants, promote policies that support entrepreneurship, and expand empowerment initiatives similar to the ones I already run through my humanitarian programs.
Question: How does your gender strengthen your candidacy?
Answer: Women leaders bring resilience, attention to detail, and strong community engagement. I bring emotional intelligence and decisive leadership, which are critical for effective governance.
Question: Do you have a political godfather?
Answer: I respect all leaders in the APC, but my political philosophy is rooted in collective leadership and service to the people rather than dependence on a single political godfather.
Question: How will you ensure accountability?
Answer: Through transparency, measurable goals, and regular engagement with constituents. Representation must involve continuous communication with the people.
Question: What lessons from the U.S. system will you apply locally?
Answer: Efficiency in governance, proper regulatory enforcement, structured oversight, and performance-based administration are lessons that can significantly improve public service delivery in Nigeria.
Question: How have traditional institutions recognized your service?
Answer: I have been honored with four chieftaincy titles from four different kingdoms in recognition of my humanitarian work and contributions to community development.
Question: Why do you believe you are the strongest aspirant?
Answer: Because I combine global administrative experience, consistent grassroots empowerment, party loyalty, and compassionate leadership. I am tested and trusted.
Question: What message do you have for women?
Answer: Women must rise confidently into leadership positions. Ogun Central is ready for capable female representation.
Question: What message do you have for the youth?
Answer: I am committed to creating opportunities, mentorship programs, and policy frameworks that will unlock the potential of our young people.
Question: Final message to Ogun Central?
Answer: I am your daughter and your servant. With tested experience, a strong track record of service, and a heart for the people, I am ready to represent Ogun Central with integrity, dedication, and excellence.
