Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

2027: Prioritize youth inclusion in Ogun governance – Coalition urges Yayi

Senator Olamilekan Adeola aka Yayi

Yayi

The Coalition of Ogun State Students and Youths (COSSY) has congratulated Senator Olamilekan Adeola also know as Yayi on his emergence as the 2027 consensus gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, urging him to prioritize youth inclusion in his administration.

This is contained in a Tuesday statement signed by Convener, COSSY, Comrade Oladimeji Uthman.

The coalition said this milestone achievement is not only a testament to Yayi’s unwavering commitment to public service, progressive leadership and grassroots development, but also a reflection of the confidence reposed in his capacity to steer Ogun State towards a more prosperous and inclusive future.

The statement reads, “As a coalition representing the vibrant voices of students and youths across the Gateway State, COSSY recognizes the significance of this moment in shaping the socio-political and economic trajectory of the state.

“We are particularly encouraged by Senator Yayi’s track record of legislative excellence, scholarship/educational programs, youth-friendly policies and dedication to empowerment initiatives, which have positively impacted countless lives across Ogun West Senatorial District and beyond.

“However, while celebrating this remarkable feat, we deem it imperative to passionately advocate for a more structured and intentional inclusion of young people in governance.

“The youth demographic remains the backbone of societal progress, innovation and sustainable development.

“Therefore, the active participation in decision-making processes is not just desirable but essential.

“In this regard, COSSY strongly urges Senator Yayi, as he prepares for the responsibilities ahead, to prioritize youth inclusion as a cornerstone of his administration.”

COSSY specifically called for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Youth Development in Ogun State.

It said such a ministry would serve as a strategic platform to address the unique challenges facing young people, ranging from unemployment and skill development to civic engagement and leadership grooming.

The coalition further advocated for the appointment of a competent, visionary and dynamic youth under the age of 40 as the Commissioner for Youth Development in the next administration.

It argued that this step would not only symbolize genuine commitment to youth empowerment but also ensure that policies and programs are designed with firsthand understanding of the aspirations and realities of young people.

“COSSY firmly believes that empowering youths is synonymous with securing the future of Ogun State. By creating opportunities for young leaders to contribute meaningfully, Senator Yayi’s administration can harness the immense potential within this demographic to drive innovation, economic growth and social cohesion.

“We remain optimistic that under his leadership, Ogun State will witness a new era of inclusive governance, where the voices of students and youths are not only heard but actively integrated into policy formulation and implementation,” the statement further reads.