In a historic and unprecedented gathering, youths of Kwara South have declared their unwavering commitment to ensuring that the next governor of Kwara State emerges from their senatorial district in 2027.
The event, held at the Pensioners’ Hall in Omu-Aran, brought together key youth stakeholders under the banner of the Kwara South Young Stakeholders for a strategic summit themed “Kwara 2027: The Kwara South Youths’ Perspective.” The turnout was overwhelming, with the hall filled to capacity long before the official start time, reflecting the deep interest and commitment of the region’s youth to shaping the state’s political future.
In his opening remarks, the summit coordinator, Comrade Abiola Lawal, emphasized the urgency of the meeting, describing it as a critical step toward ensuring that the voice of Kwara South youths is not only heard but recognized in the 2027 political landscape.
He stressed the importance of unity, strategic planning, and collective commitment to the region’s development.
The panel session featured thought-provoking insights from notable speakers, including Comrade Love Adeyemi, Mr. Rasheed, Comrade Joel, and the only female panelist, who all reinforced the need for youth inclusivity in governance.
Their analyses underscored the necessity of strategic political engagement in securing the governorship for Kwara South.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Raphael Adetiba, a former Deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, urged the youths to remain steadfast in their pursuit, emphasizing that the region must no longer be sidelined in state leadership. Comrade Ben Duntoye, a former National President of the Youth Council of Nigeria and a former commissioner in the state, also addressed the gathering, outlining pathways for youth participation in governance and the importance of political alliances.
One of the highlights of the summit was the interactive session, where participants engaged in robust discussions, raising critical questions that kept attendees on the edge of their seats.
The engagement demonstrated a politically conscious and determined youth force, ready to take proactive steps toward achieving their goal.
Comrade Kunle Adewunmi urged participants to actively engage with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), highlighting the benefits of integrating into national youth leadership structures to amplify their advocacy.
As the summit drew to a close, a strong resolution was adopted: Kwara South must produce the governor in 2027. The meeting signaled the beginning of a coordinated movement that will involve consultations, alliances, and strategic political engagements across party lines.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Comrade Lateef Adelani Oladipo, MPA, ACPA, who was the Irepodun SDP candidate in the last local government election, reiterated the importance of the moment, stating that Kwara South youths were no longer content with being mere spectators in the political process.
With the summit’s communiqué set to be released, the ball is now in the court of Kwara South’s political stakeholders. The road to 2027 has officially begun, and the message is clear—Kwara South is ready to lead.
