Monday, June 8, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Why Kogi youths are rallying around Asiwaju Olusoji

 

In many parts of Kogi State today, conversations among young people are gradually shifting from frustration and uncertainty to discussions around opportunity, mentorship and grassroots empowerment, with several youths increasingly pointing to Prince Olatunji Olusoji, popularly known as Asiwaju, as one of the emerging figures inspiring that change.

Across campuses, local communities and youth gatherings, his name has continued to surface in conversations centered on education support, empowerment programmes and direct engagement with young people seeking direction and support in difficult economic times.

For many youths in Kogi West especially, the attraction towards Asiwaju is not built around political slogans alone but around what they describe as visible and practical interventions that directly affect their lives and future.

Students who benefited from free JAMB registrations and scholarship programmes say his interventions came at moments when many families were struggling to keep up with educational expenses and rising living costs.

Others point to his youth empowerment initiatives, which they say have helped many young people embrace self-reliance through skills support and economic opportunities rather than dependency.

Within community circles, several youth leaders describe him as accessible and approachable, noting that his willingness to engage directly with younger generations has strengthened his growing appeal among first-time voters and politically conscious youths.

In Ayere and surrounding communities, young residents say his development-driven engagements have gradually created a sense of inclusion among youths who previously felt disconnected from leadership and governance conversations.

Political observers believe his increasing acceptance among young people reflects a changing political culture in Kogi State, where youths are beginning to align themselves more with leaders they perceive as impactful and visible at the grassroots level.

Beyond philanthropy, many say his messaging around self-development, education and service to humanity has resonated strongly with young people searching for role models whose success stories extend beyond politics.

As chairman of Grosvenor Global Services Limited, Asiwaju’s background in business and enterprise is also viewed by many youths as proof that success can be achieved through discipline, innovation and strategic thinking.

Traditional leaders and community stakeholders have also acknowledged his growing connection with younger demographics, describing it as one of the factors strengthening his rising profile across Kogi State.

Speaking on why he remains passionate about investing in young people, Asiwaju said the future of society depends heavily on the opportunities made available to the younger generation.

“Youths are the backbone of every society. If we fail to invest in them today through education, empowerment and mentorship, then we are simply postponing bigger problems for tomorrow,” he said.

 

He added that his commitment to supporting young people would remain unwavering, stressing that leadership should always focus on creating pathways that allow others to grow, succeed and contribute positively to society.