In the realm of politics, leaders often emerge from diverse backgrounds, bringing with them unique perspectives and experiences that shape their approach to governance. One such leader is Stephen Osemwegie, whose journey from agriculture to politics has instilled in him a strong sense of leadership and a commitment to serving the people of Edo.
Born into a family with deep roots in agriculture, Stephen Osemwegie was exposed to the value of hard work and perseverance from an early age. His family’s subsistence farming business in the Uhunwonde and Orhionmwon communities became their primary source of livelihood. Stephen learned the intricacies of farming and developed an appreciation for the land and its bounty. These formative years instilled in him a deep respect for the importance of agriculture as a means of sustenance and economic growth.
Stephen’s exposure to politics came through his father, Pa. Abusomwan Osemwegie JP, a grassroots politician who was actively involved in the then SDP (Social Democratic Party) and later the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party). From a young age, Stephen witnessed his father’s dedication to public service and his ability to connect with people. He observed the impact that effective leadership and mobilization could have on a community.
These early experiences in agriculture and politics played a pivotal role in shaping Stephen’s path. They laid the foundation for his journey into politics and governance, instilling in him the values of hard work, community engagement, and servant leadership. Stephen recognised that he had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people of Edo State, and he embraced that responsibility with determination and passion.
In 2005, Stephen Osemwegie took a significant step towards his political aspirations by gaining admission to the prestigious University of Nigeria Nsukka. Studying Geoinformatics and Surveying, he honed his leadership skills and demonstrated his commitment to serving his fellow students. From serving as the President of the National Association of Edo State Students (NAESS) UNN Chapter to becoming the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) for the nationwide student body, Stephen showcased his ability to mobilise and organise for a common cause.
During his time at the university, Stephen’s leadership abilities were recognized when he was appointed as the Welfare Director of the Enugu Campus’s caretaker committee. In this role, he was responsible for addressing the day-to-day needs of over 5000 students, working closely with other committee members and the Dean of Students Affairs. Stephen’s outstanding service was acknowledged with a Vice Chancellor Award, affirming his dedication to serving others and his commitment to excellence.
Stephen Osemwegie’s academic achievements also opened doors for him in the professional world. He was recruited by an international aerospace company, thanks to his outstanding academic credentials and performance. His work as a GIS analyst and his involvement in state-wide aerial survey mapping demonstrated his expertise and his ability to contribute to large-scale projects.
Today, Stephen Osemwegie’s journey continues as he seeks to translate his leadership skills, his agricultural background, and his political experiences into meaningful change for the people of Edo. His vision encompasses safety, infrastructure development, human capital growth, and job creation. Stephen’s unique perspective, shaped by his early exposure to agriculture and politics, allows him to approach governance with a holistic understanding of the needs and aspirations of the people he aims to serve.
As Stephen Osemwegie embarks on his political journey, he remains committed to the principles of hard work, community engagement, and servant leadership that guided him from his humble beginnings. His deep-rooted connection to the land and his understanding of the importance of effective leadership will undoubtedly transform Edo as he looks forward to clinching the Labour Party (LP) ticket in the coming weeks.