By Shehu Suleiman Kayode
There is a popular saying in Islam that “a promise is a debt.” The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasize the importance of fulfilling promises and upholding trust. Another profound teaching reminds us that “leaders are servants of the people.” These timeless principles have continued to define the leadership style and public service journey of Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, the Member representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
When the people of Ilorin West/Asa entrusted Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya with their mandate in 2023, they did so based on confidence in his vision, character, and campaign promises. From the very beginning, he made it clear that his ambition was not merely to occupy a political office but to provide purposeful representation, inclusive leadership, and tangible development that would positively impact every community within the constituency. Three years later, his scorecard speaks louder than words.
Leadership is often measured by the ability to translate promises into action. For Hon. Shagaya, public office has remained a sacred trust. He understands that once elected, a representative becomes accountable to the people and must dedicate himself to advancing their welfare. This understanding has guided his commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every ward, community, and stakeholder within Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency.
Despite being a first-term lawmaker, Hon. Shagaya has distinguished himself as one of the most active and impactful members of the House of Representatives. Through dedication, competence, and a deep understanding of legislative responsibilities, he has earned recognition as a vibrant contributor on the floor of the Green Chamber. His interventions consistently focus on policies and initiatives that promote national development while addressing the needs of his constituents.
His legislative achievements are both remarkable and far-reaching. Hon. Shagaya has sponsored and co-sponsored numerous bills aimed at strengthening key sectors of the economy and improving the lives of Nigerians. These include bills seeking the establishment of State Police, a Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition, a Federal College of Education, reforms to the Universal Basic Education framework, the establishment of a Health Education Practitioners Board, a Federal Cancer Research and Treatment Centre, and the Nigerian Institute of Agricultural and Applied Economics, among several others. In addition, he has sponsored motions on matters of national importance and constituency development.
Beyond legislative activities, Hon. Shagaya has consistently ensured that the benefits of representation are felt directly by the people. His interventions in infrastructure development have transformed learning environments through the construction and renovation of educational facilities across the constituency. These projects have provided students with more conducive spaces for learning and have contributed significantly to improving educational standards within the area.
Access to clean water and electricity has also received considerable attention under his representation. Through the installation of solar-powered and motorized boreholes across communities, thousands of residents now enjoy improved access to potable water. Likewise, the installation of solar-powered streetlights and the distribution of solar lighting solutions to households have enhanced security, improved living conditions, and contributed to economic activities in many communities.
Recognizing the importance of healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation, Hon. Shagaya has facilitated numerous medical outreach programmes, distributed medical equipment and solar facilities to healthcare centres, and supported vulnerable members of society through various intervention programmes. Farmers have benefited from the distribution of fertilizers, tractors, and modern farming equipment, while youths, women, and men have been trained in entrepreneurship, leadership, financial literacy, soap production, fishing, and other vocational skills. Many beneficiaries have also received financial support to establish and sustain their businesses. In a bid to preserve local industries and strengthen economic self-reliance, he has provided Aso-Oke weavers and other traditional textile artisans with modern equipment and tools to enhance productivity and improve their livelihoods. Furthermore, his commitment to education is evident through scholarship support and educational assistance provided to deserving students, helping many young people pursue their academic aspirations without undue financial burden.
Hon. Shagaya has also facilitated employment opportunities for numerous constituents through federal and state government recruitment exercises, helping many qualified individuals secure meaningful careers in the public sector. Among his numerous impactful interventions is the Keke Irorun program, alongside several empowerment initiatives designed to improve livelihoods and create sustainable economic opportunities for constituents. These programs have been widely embraced by beneficiaries and have contributed significantly to economic relief, increased income, and improved living standards for many families.
His support for security agencies through the provision of operational equipment further demonstrates his commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the constituency. Importantly, these interventions have not been concentrated in a few communities but have been equitably distributed across all 29 wards of Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, ensuring that no part of the constituency is left behind in the journey toward progress and development.
As Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya marks three years in office, the verdict from many constituents is clear: he has remained faithful to his promises and committed to service. He never promised to perform miracles or solve every challenge overnight. Rather, he pledged to make life better, represent the people effectively, and pursue development with sincerity and dedication.
Today, many constituents proudly echo the slogan “Shagaya Lẹẹkan Sí” (Shagaya Again), expressing their desire for continuity based on his visible achievements. Three years of impactful representation have strengthened public confidence in his leadership, and many believe that greater progress lies ahead if given the opportunity to continue serving. His journey remains a testament to the fact that when leadership is driven by integrity, service, and commitment to promises made, the people will always have reasons to believe.
May I sincerely congratulate you on three impactful and well-spent years of service. I encourage you to continue on this commendable path of purposeful representation and people-centered leadership. I also urge the good people of Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency to continue supporting you, as you have demonstrated that you are well-suited for this responsibility.
Congratulations, People’s Honourable. May your service continue to bring progress, development, and prosperity to the people.
Shehu Suleiman Kayode,
SA Media to Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, Member representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency
