Emerging political leaders across Oyo State have called for greater participation of youths and women in politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The call was made at a gathering themed “Bridging the Gap, Uniting Political Strengths, Mobilising Emerging Political Leaders for 2027.”
One of the organisers, Hon. Wale Ajani, said the event was designed to bring emerging political leaders from across the state together to build networks, collaborate and prepare for the next electoral cycle.
“Today’s programme is a convergence of emerging political leaders across Oyo State. The ideology behind it is for them to engage and collaborate among themselves in preparation for the 2027 election.”
Ajani said the organisers were also promoting the “50 Below 50” initiative to encourage more young people to take up leadership positions and become active participants in the political process.
He urged young Nigerians to reject vote-buying and other forms of political inducement, encouraging them instead to support leaders who are willing to listen to their concerns and create opportunities for them.
Ajani identified lack of political funding as one of the major barriers confronting young people seeking elective positions and called for a more inclusive political system in Oyo State.
Speaking at the event, former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Asimiyu Alarape, urged emerging politicians to prioritise education, competence and proper preparation.
He cautioned young people against desperation, stressing that political success requires patience and readiness to take advantage of opportunities when they arise.
“You have to prepare yourself. You have to be capable. You have to educate yourself immensely… And you must not be desperate. In politics, you have to wait for your turn.”
Also speaking, the APC State Youth Leader, Olalekan Glory, said the party was mobilising young people across Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections.
Glory said the APC was promoting greater youth participation in governance and expressed confidence that the party’s governorship candidate, Sharafadeen Ali would prioritise the interests of young people if elected.
“Presently, if you check the number of youths that have gotten appointments at the federal level, you should say that we are running a youth-inclusive government.”
The speakers called for inclusive leadership, stronger youth and women participation, political education and issue-based engagement as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
