ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE

Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, born on April 4, 1952, in Iyamho, near Auchi in Edo State, Nigeria, has carved a significant niche in Nigerian politics through a journey marked by activism, leadership, and resilience.

Raised in Edo State, Oshiomhole's early career was shaped by his involvement in trade union activities. He began as a union secretary at Arewa Textiles Company, later transitioning to become a full-time trade union organizer in 1975. This early exposure to workers' rights issues laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Oshiomhole recognized the importance of education in his advocacy efforts, leading him to pursue further studies at Ruskin College, Oxford, United Kingdom, focusing on industrial relations and labor economics. Additionally, his attendance at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Plateau State earned him the title of Member of the National Institute (MNI).

As a labor leader, Oshiomhole's influence grew exponentially. Appointed as General Secretary of the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria in 1982, he represented over 75,000 workers, advocating for their rights and welfare. His tenure as president of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) from 1999 to 2007 saw him leading campaigns against high oil prices and negotiating wage increases for public sector workers.

Transitioning from labor activism to mainstream politics, Oshiomhole contested the governorship of Edo State in 2007 under the Action Congress Party. Despite initial electoral setbacks, his persistence paid off, and he assumed office as governor in 2008 after legal battles.

As governor, Oshiomhole implemented various reforms, focusing on infrastructure development, education, and healthcare. His achievements earned him a second term in 2012, further solidifying his position in Edo State politics.

In 2018, Oshiomhole assumed the role of national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a position he held until his suspension in 2019 amid internal party conflicts. Undeterred, he continued to pursue his political ambitions, winning the APC primaries for the 2023 Edo North Senatorial Elections and subsequently emerging victorious in the senatorial election.

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