Ahead of the July 12 local council elections in the state, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter has declared its support for young contestants in the race for the 57 Chairmanship seats and 376 Councillorship positions across the 57 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state.
In a press statement signed by its chairman, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim Olalekan on Monday, the group expressed delight that more youths have shown interest in leadership positions at the grassroots by throwing their hats in the rings for elective posts.
He added that though the youth umbrella body is non-partisan, its support for its members who are contesting and the broader youth constituency who have chosen to step into political arena to contribute to governance, drive development and effect meaningful change was by obligation.
According to him, “Youth participation in politics and governance is crucial to achieving a more inclusive, innovative, and progressive society. We believe that the future of governance lies in the hands of competent, visionary leaders who are ready to bring fresh ideas and energy into the system. The 2025 LG polls present an opportunity for youths to demonstrate leadership capacity and commitment to grassroots development.”
The youth council boss went on to urge the political parties to ensure a level playing field for young aspirants as it challenged elegible voters to come out en masse and participate in the election by voting candidates “who have shown dedication to the ideals of service, accountability, and community development.”
“We also call on the electoral umpire; the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission LASIEC to uphold the mandate of the commission which is to ensure free, fair and credible elections.”
He concluded by disclosing that in the coming days the youth group will roll out sensitization and voter education
programs to ensure massive youth participation and to promote peaceful, free, and credible elections across the state.
