An artificial intelligence expert and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress in Ogun State, Dr Biodun Ogundipe, has lamented the slow pace of development in the state nearly 50 years after its creation, attributing the situation to poor leadership, lack of innovation and overreliance on federal allocations.
Ogundipe disclosed this on Monday in Abeokuta during an empowerment programme organised for over 300 residents drawn from the 20 local government areas of the state.
He stated that Ogun State, which once experienced steady growth, was now regressing due to the absence of creative governance capable of attracting investment and creating sustainable jobs.
The ADC chieftain also blamed successive governments for excessive dependence on federal allocations, arguing that such funds alone could not generate employment for the people.
Speaking with journalists at the event, as the state prepares to mark its 50th anniversary in February 2026, Ogundipe said, “Ogun State went through a period of progression, but today we are nosediving because the experience required to bring innovation into governance is lacking.
“We cannot continue to rely solely on allocation from the Federal Government. Many economically viable projects in Ogun State do not require federal allocation to execute.
“There are people who have completed university education and are still at home because there are no jobs. We cannot create jobs with allocation alone; we must be creative.
“The world has moved beyond just constructing roads. Innovation and technology are what attract investment and create sustainable employment.”
As part of the empowerment programme, beneficiaries were provided with laptops, power banks, Point of Sale machines and a start-up grant of ₦100,000 each.
Ogundipe noted that the initiative went beyond handouts, stressing that beneficiaries were trained to use the tools effectively.
He explained that participants were trained in graphic design, makeup artistry and solar installation, with laptops provided to support those trained in digital skills.
Ogundipe, who has declared interest in the 2027 governorship race, said the ADC would promote good governance and accelerate the development of Ogun State if allowed to lead.
He added that the programme was designed in response to Nigeria’s worsening economic situation and rising unemployment, particularly among young graduates.
“We are not just giving out laptops or POS machines; we are training beneficiaries on how to use them effectively and supporting them with start-up capital. The idea is to properly equip them to create wealth on their own,” he said.
The ADC chieftain argued that with the right leadership, Ogun State could harness technology and innovation to generate revenue and employment for its growing population.
He described the empowerment initiative as part of the ADC’s commitment to alleviating hardship and equipping residents with practical skills to cope with current economic challenges.
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