The governorship candidate of the People’s Redemption Party for the August 15 Osun election, Saliu Orisunlagba, has expressed confidence that he can deliver stronger leadership than the current governor, Ademola Adeleke, if voted into office.

Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Osogbo on Friday, the medical doctor and politician acknowledged that the present administration has performed better than some previous governments in the state. However, he maintained that his administration would take Osun to a higher level of development.

Orisunlagba stated that his government would place major emphasis on youth development, women empowerment, education, and security. According to him, Osun has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s leading states with the right policies and leadership in place.

He stressed the need for stronger measures to address insecurity, especially considering the growing security concerns in neighboring states. He also noted that protecting farmers and improving safety across communities would be among his administration’s immediate priorities.

The PRP candidate further promised to create opportunities for young people and support women, particularly traders and small business owners, through empowerment and skill-development programmes aimed at reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods.

On education, Orisunlagba said the sector requires urgent attention, lamenting the declining academic performance among students. Drawing from his background as a medical doctor and former outstanding student, he pledged reforms that would improve standards in schools across the state.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission has confirmed that 14 political parties will participate in the forthcoming Osun governorship election.

Other notable contenders include Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress.