The Special Adviser to Dapo Abiodun on Youth Affairs, Olamide Lawal, has called for the active participation of Nigerian youths in politics to drive positive change and place the country on a path of sustainable development.
Lawal said involvement in the political process and governance would provide a platform for young people to contribute to policy formulation and decision-making, ultimately helping to shape a stronger nation.
He noted that the administration of Bola Tinubu has demonstrated confidence in Nigerian youths by creating opportunities for them to contribute to national development.
Lawal made the call, according to a statement on Thursday, in Abeokuta during an interfaith prayer programme organised by the Yayi Youth Vanguard with the theme, “Consolidating a Brighter Future for Ogun Youth: Inclusiveness in Politics and Governance.”
Speaking at the event, Lawal, who is also the convener of the group, said the gathering was aimed at awakening the political consciousness of youths across the state, especially as the 2027 elections approach.
He urged young people to support the re-election of Tinubu, the administration of Abiodun, and the governorship ambition of Olamilekan Adeola.
Lawal stressed that active youth participation in politics remains key to influencing governance and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.
“If young people do not get involved, they lose the moral right to criticise the government over lack of development in their communities,” he said.
He added, “The essence of this gathering is to awaken the political consciousness of young people. We are in a political season, and when choosing leaders, youths must be actively involved.
“We also deemed it necessary to begin mobilisation with prayers, considering the ongoing periods of Ramadan and Lent, by bringing together Islamic and Christian leaders to pray for the nation and its leaders.”
Lawal further said the group planned to mobilise youths across the state to participate actively in politics while discouraging violence and thuggery as the elections draw nearer.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, urged youths to support Adeola’s governorship ambition, describing it as aligned with President Tinubu’s youth-focused governance approach.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy and Policy Development, Abiola Odetola, Olopade said the inclusion of youths in governance reflects a commitment to capacity building, generational transition and sustainable development.
“Young people must not only be interested in politics but must be actively involved to drive national progress,” he said.
An Ogun State House of Assembly member representing Ipokia Constituency, Bisi Oyedele, also described Adeola as a unifying figure in the agitation for Ogun West to produce the next governor of the state.
He urged youths to position themselves for leadership roles, noting that they have a critical role to play in nation-building and governance.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Pastor Abiodun Sanyaolu, emphasised the importance of youth participation in determining electoral outcomes.
He maintained that while other aspirants within the APC are capable, Adeola remains a strong contender and called for increased support for his ambition.
In his welcome address, the State Coordinator of Yayi Youth Vanguard, Comrade Emmanuel Enitan Ojo, said the gathering symbolised unity, faith and commitment to the progress of Ogun State.
“Today marks a significant moment for us — a day of unity, prayer and commitment to the future of Ogun State. We have come together to seek divine guidance for peace, development and prosperity, and to reaffirm the youths’ dedication to a brighter future,” Ojo said.
He commended Adeola for his support for youths and pledged that the group would extend its mobilisation efforts across all parts of the state.
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