The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has thrown its weight behind the Ọ̀yọ́ State Emerging Political Leaders Summit 2026, with the Minister, Ayodele Olawande, describing it as a “timely and significant” platform to prepare a new generation of leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a formal endorsement letter dated August 11, 2026, and addressed to the Convener, Wale Ajani, the Minister said the summit represents a critical intervention to deepen political participation and strengthen the place of young people in Nigeria’s democracy.
The 2-day summit is scheduled for *August 24–25, 2026 at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Agodi GRA, Ibadan* under the theme: _“Bridging the Gap, Uniting Political Strength, and Mobilizing Emerging Leaders for 2027.”_
The Minister used the endorsement to issue a direct challenge to Nigeria’s political class, warning against treating young people as election-season tools.
“I have consistently maintained that young people must not be regarded merely as foot soldiers of politics or mobilised only when elections approach,” the Minister stated.
“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, he said 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.”
In what may become the defining soundbite of the summit, the Minister laid out a new code of conduct for emerging political leaders heading into 2027:
“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.”
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.
The Minister commended the organising team and urged participants to see the gathering as more than “another political gathering.”
“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.”
With federal backing now secured just two weeks to the event, expectations are high that the Ibadan Civic Centre will host one of the most consequential youth political gatherings in the South-West ahead of 2027.
