Impacting our world: My involvement in politics in Canada – Dr. John Owojori

In a historic move for the Nigerian and Black communities in Saskatoon, Dr. John Olugbenga Owojori is making waves as the first Black man and Nigerian to run for a legislative seat in Saskatoon. As a soil ecotoxicologist, entrepreneur, and dedicated community leader, Dr. Owojori’s candidacy is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for the representation of diverse voices in the province. With a rich background in academia and a deep commitment to public service, he brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the political arena. His journey from Nigeria to Saskatoon, alongside his family, has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a vision to enhance the lives of his constituents. As he steps into this new chapter, Dr. Owojori is poised to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, advocating for inclusivity, healthcare reform, educational empowerment, and sustainable development in Saskatoon Southeast.

Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to Canada?

My name is Dr. Olugbenga (John) Owojori, and I am the Saskatchewan Party MLA candidate for Saskatoon Southeast in the upcoming Saskatchewan provincial election in October 2024. I am a soil ecotoxicologist with extensive experience in academia and research in Nigeria, South Africa, Germany, USA and Canada and currently a visiting scholar in OAU, Ile-Ife. My passion goes beyond academia and include entrepreneurship, owning multiple businesses in Canada, and community service. My PhD in soil ecotoxicology brought me to Canada through a University of Saskatchewan-led project, aimed at eco-restoration in the boreal shield. Since 2009, my family and I have called Saskatoon home. My wife Rachael, who is a dedicated nurse and talented artist, and our three sons have firmly established our roots in this vibrant community. My journey across continents has enriched my experiences and perspectives, which I am now dedicated to bringing to our local community with a strong commitment to service.

How has your Nigerian heritage influenced your journey and decision to enter politics?

My Nigerian heritage has profoundly shaped my values and determination. The diverse cultural experiences and the strong sense of community I gained growing up in Nigeria have inspired me to engage deeply with community service and advocacy. These values drive my commitment to ensuring that every community member in Saskatoon Southeast who I plan to represent feels represented and supported.

Could you share with us your educational background and how it has prepared you for a career in politics?

I earned my Ph.D. from Stellenbosch University, South Africa and conducted postdoctoral research in Canada and Germany. My academic journey also includes positions as visiting professor in South Africa and the USA. These experiences have honed my skills in research, critical thinking, and policy development, which are essential for effective political leadership.

What professional experiences have you had that you believe will help you serve effectively in the legislature?

Professionally, I have impacted environmental sustainability through participation as an expert scientist in international projects, including a Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN initiative in developing a Pesticide Registration Toolkit for use in developing countries. Additionally, my entrepreneurial ventures, such as a certified driving school, an immigration consultancy, and a business consulting firm, have equipped me with insights into local economic development and community needs. These experiences provide a strong foundation for serving effectively in the legislature.

What core values and principles guide your approach to politics and public service?

My approach to politics and public service is guided by values of integrity, inclusivity, and community empowerment. I believe in transparent governance, responsive leadership, and fostering a sense of belonging for all community members.

Why did you decide to run for a legislative seat, and what do you hope to achieve?

I decided to run for a legislative seat to contribute more significantly to our community’s growth and development. I aim to enhance healthcare, bolster education, promote sustainable agricultural and environmental practices and provide enabling environment for investment. My goal is to ensure that our healthcare system is accessible, our schools are equipped to prepare our youth for future success, and our mining and agricultural sectors thrives sustainably.

As the first Nigerian cum Black person to get a party nomination in Saskatoon, what message do you want to send to the community and future generations?

As the first Nigerian or Black person to receive a party nomination in Saskatchewan, I want to send a message of hope and possibility. I hope to inspire future generations to believe in their potential and to actively engage in shaping our community’s future, knowing that diversity and inclusion are strengths that can drive meaningful change.

Can you outline your main policy priorities and the initiatives you would like to implement?

My main policy priorities include enhancing our healthcare system to ensure it is responsive and accessible, strengthening educational programs to equip our youth with necessary skills, and promoting sustainable agricultural and environmental practices to bolster our local economy. I also plan to support initiatives that foster entrepreneurship and economic growth within our community.

How will you ensure that the voices of diverse communities are heard and represented in your policy decisions?

I will ensure that the voices of diverse communities are heard by actively engaging with community leaders, holding regular town hall meetings, and creating advisory councils that reflect our community’s diversity. Listening to and incorporating feedback from all community members will be central to my policy-making process.

What strategies will you use to ensure transparency and accountability in your role as a legislator?

To ensure transparency and accountability, I will maintain open lines of communication with constituents through regular updates, transparent reporting of legislative activities, and accessible channels for feedback and concerns. I am committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical governance.

What is your long-term vision for Saskatoon, and how do you plan to contribute to achieving it?

My long-term vision for Saskatoon includes a thriving, inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their potentials. I plan to contribute by advocating for policies that enhance healthcare, education, and economic opportunities while ensuring environmental sustainability and community cohesion.

How do you envision your role in fostering inclusivity and diversity within the political landscape of Saskatoon?

I envision my role as a catalyst for fostering inclusivity and diversity by advocating for equitable policies and creating platforms for underrepresented voices. I will work to ensure that our political landscape reflects the rich diversity of our community and promotes equal opportunities for all.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing your constituency, and how do you plan to address them?

The biggest challenges facing our constituency include healthcare and educational accessibility, rising cost of living, and economic sustainability. I plan to address these challenges by advocating for targeted investments in healthcare infrastructure, educational programs, and support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

What opportunities do you see for growth and development in Saskatoon, and how will you leverage them for the benefit of your constituents?

Saskatoon has significant opportunities for growth in sectors like technology, agriculture, and small businesses. I will leverage these opportunities by promoting policies that encourage innovation, support sustainable practices in agriculture, and provide resources for local entrepreneurs to thrive. These efforts will help drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all constituents.