…Tasks Youth to ‘organize without dividing’ ahead of 2027 Election
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande has expressed support for the Ọ̀yọ́ State Emerging Political Leaders Summit 2026.
Mr Olawande in an endorsement letter dated August 11, 2026, addressed to the Convener of the summit, described it as a “timely and significant” platform to prepare a new generation of leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the Minister, the summit represents a critical intervention to deepen political participation and strengthen the place of young people in Nigeria’s democracy.
” I have consistently maintained that young people must not be regarded merely as foot soldiers of politics or mobilised only when elections approach,” he said.
The Minister added,” They must be recognised as stakeholders, decision-makers and leaders with a legitimate role in shaping the direction of their communities and our country.”
” As Nigeria approaches another democratic transition, the country must deliberately create platforms that promote inclusion, encourage constructive political engagement and prepare a new generation of leaders with the character, competence and capacity to contribute meaningfully to governance.”
He stressed ” We need young political leaders who can organise without dividing, compete without destroying relationships, disagree without becoming enemies, and understand that politics must ultimately be about service, responsibility and improving the lives of the people.”
Lauding the summit organising team and urging participants to see the gathering as more than “another political gathering, the Minister said ” I encourage all participants to see the Summit as an opportunity to build bridges, exchange ideas, strengthen unity and inspire a new generation of purposeful political leadership,” Olawande wrote.
“The future of our democracy will be shaped by young people who are prepared not only to seek leadership, but to demonstrate the character, competence and courage required to lead.”
The summit, convened by renowned political strategist Wale Ajani, is expected to draw emerging political leaders, youth stakeholders, grassroots mobilisers, women leaders and other influential voices from across Ọ̀yọ́ State.
