KPMO Conference: Panelists Task Kwara Youths on Political Participation, Leadership
…Shagaya, Ajakaye Canvass Support for APC Candidates
The Panelists at the Governance, Leadership and Youth Engagement Conference organised by the Kwara Progressive Media Organisation (KPMO) have implored youths in Kwara State to play active role in politics and governance.
The Panelists comprising Kwara State Commissioner for Water Resources, the Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor, Titilope Anifowoshe and Former House of Representatives Candidate, Comrade Musa Idris Buko at Banquet Hall, Ilorin on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Titilope Anifowose, a fellow of Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy encouraged youths not to relent in their political participation, stressing that they are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but also the leaders of today.
Anifowoshe hinted that young people are already holding positions in government a d and urged others to take advantage of available opportunities to contribute meaningfully to leadership and governance.
On his contribution, Musa Idris Buko commended the organisers for providing a platform for discourse on youth engagement and governance. He urged young people to become more actively involved in politics and contribute to decisions that shape the future of Kwara State.
Hon. Yunusa Lade, Commissioner for Water Resources, commended KPMO for providing an avenue for youths from different backgrounds to express their views on issues affecting them, noting that government policies have a direct impact on young people.
Lade urged residents to remain law-abiding and contribute positively to the state, while encouraging continued support for the APC under the slogan “Iwaju la n lọ,” meaning “We are moving forward.”
In their separate remarks, the Member representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Hon Tolani Shagaya and House of Representatives candidate for Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun Federal Constituency, Dr Rafiu Ajakaye canvassed support for all APC Candidates in Kwara
Ajakaye the group members remain committed to Governor AbdulRazaq led administration, stressing the importance of early mobilisation, unity and collective action ahead of 2027 Polls.
While Shagaya praised the governor’s leadership and highlighted the representation of women in the state cabinet as an example of political inclusion, urging stakeholders to support credible leadership.
Representing Hon. Muhammed Funsho Abdullahi, Nafiu Toyin Abdaqodir emphasised that youth participation in politics must extend beyond campaign rallies. He encouraged young people to build their knowledge, competence and leadership capacity in order to position themselves for future opportunities.
Earlier, the Chairman of Kwara Progressive Media Organisation and convener of the conference, Amb. Adeyefa Moses appreciated Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his administration’s for investing in youth development and governance.
Adeyefa stressed that young people must move beyond being spectators during election periods and become active participants in shaping the state’s political and developmental future.
“My dear youths, the time to take responsibility is now. We must move beyond social media conversations and become actively involved in community development, political education and constructive engagement,” he said.
Delivering a goodwill message, Hon. Abdul Jelil Bala Daba, Senior Special Assistant to the APC National Youth Leader and a member of the Presidential Campaign Council, commended cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government. He also highlighted efforts towards economic stability and improved civil service welfare.
The event attracted prominent government officials, political figures and youth advocates, including Engr. Kola Abdulazeez Abdulganiyu, Commissioner for Energy; Hon. Dr. Afeez Abolore, former Commissioner for Agriculture and House of Representatives aspirant for Ilorin East/South; Akintade Shittu, House of Representatives aspirant for Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero; and Olatunde Michael, Kwara South Senatorial Aspirant.