The Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Youth Affairs, Olamide Lawal, has urged Nigerian youths to actively participate in politics to drive positive change and support national development.
Lawal spoke in Abeokuta during an interfaith prayer programme organised by the Yayi Youth Vanguard.
The event focused on inclusiveness in politics and governance ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said youth involvement in governance would provide opportunities to shape policies and influence decision-making.
Lawal said: “If young people do not get involved, they lose the moral right to criticise the government over lack of development in their communities.”
He added that the gathering was aimed at raising political awareness among youths.
He said: “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 said the group would mobilise youths across Ogun State while discouraging violence and thuggery as elections approach.
He also urged support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, the Abiodun administration, and the governorship ambition of Olamilekan Adeola.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, also called for youth participation in governance.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy and Policy Development, Abiola Odetola, he said: “Young people must not only be interested in politics but must be actively involved to drive national progress.”
An Ogun State House of Assembly member representing Ipokia Constituency, Bisi Oyedele, described Adeola as a unifying figure in the push for Ogun West to produce the next governor.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Pastor Abiodun Sanyaolu, stressed the importance of youth participation in elections and governance.
In his welcome address, the State Coordinator of Yayi Youth Vanguard, Emmanuel Enitan Ojo, highlighted the purpose of the gathering.
Ojo said: “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.”
He commended Adeola for supporting youths and pledged continued mobilisation across the state.
