Oluyede Pledges ₦72bn Annual Revenue from Health Sector, Targets Economic Revival in Ekiti

The gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Dr Wole Oluyede, has unveiled an ambitious plan to generate ₦72 billion annually from the state’s health sector if elected in the forthcoming June 20 governorship election. Speaking during a radio interview in Ado-Ekiti, Oluyede criticised current budgetary allocations to healthcare as insufficient and positioned his proposal as a cornerstone of a broader strategy to revitalise the state’s economy, improve living standards, and address pressing developmental challenges.

Healthcare as a Revenue Driver and Economic Catalyst

Dr Oluyede emphasised that healthcare should not only be viewed as a social service but also as a viable economic sector capable of generating substantial revenue. He argued that with the right policies, infrastructure, and management, Ekiti State could transform its health system into a major contributor to internally generated revenue.

According to him, his administration would prioritise accessible and quality healthcare services while simultaneously leveraging the sector for economic gains. Although he declined to disclose the specific mechanisms behind the proposed ₦72 billion annual revenue target, he insisted that the strategy is both achievable and sustainable.

He further linked healthcare reform to broader economic development, noting that a functional health system would attract investments, create jobs, and enhance productivity across the state. Oluyede maintained that improving public health outcomes is essential for long-term economic stability and growth.

Security, Governance, and Political Independence

Addressing concerns beyond healthcare, the PDP candidate highlighted the need to tackle insecurity, which he described as a major impediment to economic progress in Ekiti State. He pledged that his administration would adopt decisive measures to combat security challenges and create a safe environment conducive to business and investment.

Oluyede also underscored his independence from political godfathers, stating that his candidacy is driven by personal conviction and divine guidance. He asserted that his reliance on “God the Father” rather than political patrons has strengthened his connection with the grassroots, as demonstrated by the turnout at a recent rally in Ikere-Ekiti.

Reflecting on his political journey, Oluyede noted that his experience across multiple political parties, including the APC and ADC, has broadened his perspective and support base. He added that his decision to join the PDP was influenced by what he described as the party’s internal quality and inclusiveness.

Oluyede Call for Equity and Regional Representation

A central theme of Oluyede’s campaign is the call for fairness in Ekiti’s political leadership. He expressed concern over what he described as the prolonged marginalisation of the Ekiti South Senatorial District, which he noted has not produced a governor since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

Citing past governors from the Central and North senatorial districts, Oluyede questioned the equity of the current political arrangement and argued that it is the turn of the South to assume leadership. He positioned his candidacy as an opportunity to correct what he sees as a historical imbalance.

The candidate also pointed to growing support within his constituency, particularly in Ikere-Ekiti, where he said residents are eager to move beyond producing deputy governors and are now rallying behind his bid for the top office. He described the momentum as a sign of the PDP’s strengthening position ahead of the election.

Dr Oluyede’s campaign combines an ambitious economic vision with a strong message of equity and political independence. As the election approaches, his proposals—particularly the plan to generate significant revenue from the health sector—are likely to remain central to public debate, alongside concerns about feasibility, transparency, and implementation.