Political leaders, policymakers and emerging political actors across Oyo State gathered in Ibadan for the 2026 Oyo State Emerging Political Leaders Summit, with a call for unity, strategic engagement and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The two-day summit, which commenced today, August 24, 2026, at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Agodi GRA, Ibadan, will continue tomorrow, August 25, with a rally walk at the Aleshinloye Museum, Ibadan. The summit is themed “Bridging the Gap, Uniting Political Strength, and Mobilizing Emerging Leaders for 2027.”
Convened by Hon. Wale Ajani, the summit is aimed at bringing together emerging political leaders, policymakers and grassroots stakeholders to foster strategic alignment, reconciliation and coalition-building ahead of the next general elections.
The event features panel discussions, networking sessions and tactical workshops focused on grassroots mobilisation, party unity and strengthening progressive political support across the state.
Among the notable personalities at the summit are Alhaja Tawa Alli, wife of the Oyo State APC governorship candidate; the Oyo State APC Youth Leader, Hon. Olalekan Glory and representatives of key public institutions, including the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch A. Adedeji.
Speaking with newsmen at the event, former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Ashimiyu Alarape, urged emerging political leaders to prepare themselves adequately for the responsibilities ahead.
Alarape advised young political actors to educate themselves, remain proactive and develop the capacity required to provide effective leadership, while cautioning them against desperation.
He noted that political opportunities would come at the appropriate time, stressing that “politics is turn by turn” and urging emerging leaders to remain patient while building their political capacity.
Also speaking, Oyo State APC Youth Leader, Hon. Olalekan Glory, said the party is committed to supporting its young candidates and ensuring their success at the polls.
Glory maintained that the APC is protecting and supporting candidates who represent the youth, expressing confidence that the party would emerge victorious.
He also dismissed the perception that young people are primarily being used as political thugs, urging youths to reject such narratives and instead become proactive participants in political processes.
The summit provide a platform for emerging leaders to exchange ideas, strengthen networks and develop strategies for greater political participation and mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.