By Mercy Aikoye
The Minister for Youth Development, Hon. Comrade Wisdom Olawande, has successfully reconciled the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN), resolving longstanding divisions within the group. This achievement is a significant milestone, marking a new era of collaboration among political youth leaders.
The reconciliation effort was finalized at a strategic meeting held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Abuja. During the meeting, Minister Olawande emphasized the importance of unity among youth leaders under the “Country First” mantra. He stressed that a unified front is crucial ahead of the upcoming youth conference.
The meeting focused on advancing youth participation in governance and adopted key resolutions aimed at empowering Nigerian youths. The resolutions also sought to foster the inclusion of young people in national decision-making processes. Minister Olawande described the initiative as a critical component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
A major outcome of the reconciliation effort was the adoption of a co-chairmanship structure to lead the forum. This inclusive arrangement saw Hon. Chinazam Ike (ADP) and Comrade Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu (APGA), both from the South East, assume joint leadership roles, along with other executive positions.
The decision to adopt a co-chairmanship structure aligns with the rotational principle that places leadership in the South East. This move demonstrates the forum’s commitment to fairness and representation. The forum now comprises representatives from 19 political parties, pledging to mobilize youth participation at constituency levels nationwide.
The decentralized approach aims to amplify the voices of young Nigerians and foster comprehensive representation in governance initiatives. By involving young people in national dialogue, the forum seeks to drive meaningful change at all levels of governance.
Participants at the meeting commended Minister Olawande for his commitment to unifying the forum and creating avenues for youth empowerment. In turn, the forum leaders committed to supporting the minister’s vision of building a Nigeria where youths are empowered to excel across all sectors.
The reconciliation of the FNYLPPN is a significant step towards empowering Nigerian youths and promoting their inclusion in national decision-making processes. With the forum now united, young people across the country can look forward to a brighter future, where their voices are heard and their interests are represented. Interestingly, available records indicate that the current Minister for Youth Development is Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, not Hon. Comrade Wisdom Olawande.
