Salihijo unveils agenda, vows to prioritize youth empowerment, ICT dev if elected
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the House of Representatives in Yola North, Yola South and Girei Federal Constituency, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, has unveiled an ambitious vision centered on youth empowerment, technology, innovation and economic transformation as he prepares for the forthcoming general elections.
Speaking at a press conference in Yola heralding his election, Ahmad said his aspiration goes beyond politics, stressing that his mission is to build a constituency driven by productivity, opportunity and sustainable development.
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The APC flagbearer said the future of the constituency depends largely on how effectively young people are empowered with modern skills, digital opportunities and access to economic support systems capable of preparing them for a rapidly changing world.
Ahmad, who has extensive experience in public service, rural electrification, infrastructure delivery and development finance, noted that representation in the National Assembly should not be limited to political rhetoric, but must focus on attracting tangible development to communities.
According to him, the people of Yola North, Yola South and Girei deserve a representative who understands governance, budgeting processes and institutional engagement capable of connecting federal opportunities directly to the grassroots.
“Our young people do not want endless handouts. They want opportunities that will make them productive and self-reliant. They want digital skills, vocational training, enterprise support and access to markets that can help them build sustainable livelihoods,” he stated.
He explained that his agenda would prioritize digital innovation, entrepreneurship development, vocational education and small business support as strategic tools for reducing unemployment and improving economic stability across the constituency.
The APC candidate further emphasized that technology and innovation would remain central pillars of his legislative agenda if elected into office.
He said the modern economy requires leaders who understand the importance of digital economy and are prepared to create pathways that enable young people to compete favorably in technology-driven sectors.
Ahmad disclosed plans to facilitate technology hubs, ICT training programmes and innovation centers that would expose youths to opportunities in software development, digital services, online businesses and emerging technologies.
According to him, equipping young people with relevant technological skills would not only reduce unemployment but also position the constituency as a center of innovation and enterprise in Adamawa State.
He also stressed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly in the areas of electricity, roads and rural connectivity, describing them as critical foundations for economic growth and private sector investment.
“A constituency with reliable infrastructure creates opportunities for businesses, empowers young people and strengthens local economies. Infrastructure development is directly linked to productivity and prosperity,” he said.
Drawing from his background in rural electrification and institutional leadership, Ahmad assured constituents that he possesses the practical experience needed to attract federal projects and development partnerships capable of transforming communities.
He added that agriculture would also receive significant attention under his proposed representation, especially through support for agricultural value chains, agro-processing initiatives and market access for farmers.
According to him, integrating technology with agriculture would help improve productivity, create jobs and boost incomes for rural dwellers.
On security and social stability, the APC candidate argued that sustainable peace can only be achieved when young people are economically engaged and communities feel included in governance and development.
“A constituency that creates opportunities creates stability. When young people are empowered and communities are not neglected, peace and prosperity naturally thrive,” he noted.
Ahmad also pledged inclusive representation, promising that every ward and demographic group, including women, traders, farmers, professionals and persons with disabilities, would have a voice under his leadership.
He said his vision is to build a new culture of representation rooted in competence, transparency, accessibility and measurable impact.
The APC candidate used the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership that continues to strengthen the APC as a national platform for governance and reform.
He also appreciated Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and party stakeholders for ensuring what he described as a transparent democratic process.
While calling for unity within the APC, Ahmad urged party members and supporters to work collectively toward securing victory in the general elections.
“This moment is not the end of a political process. It is the beginning of responsibility. Together, we can build a constituency that is economically stronger, technologically advanced and better represented,” he said.
