Youths seeking political or leadership positions in Nigeria must possess certain skills, ability and knowledge for them to realize their aspirations.
This formed part of submissions by speakers at a one-day summit on Leadership Initiative For Tomorrow’s Leaders In Politics’, tagged “Agboworin FLIP 1.0, organized in Ibadan by a House Of Representatives Member representing Ibadan North East/South East Federal constituency, Hon. Abass Adigun Agboworin.
The programme, which was the first edition, was part of the lawmaker’s efforts aimed at preparing the youths in Oyo state ahead of leadership task and responsibilities as future leaders.
Leading the conversation was the guest speaker, a professor of political science, University of Ibadan, Professor Remi Aiyede who spoke on the topic “Youth, Politics and Leadership for the Twenty-first Century Nigeria: Emerging Issues”.
Professor Aiyede explained that leadership requires conceptual skills to formulate a vision, create goals, build an organisation structure and create a shared sense of purpose as well as an environment where people want to do their best work.
He said any youth that desire to attain leadership position should possess Interpersonal influence, networking and thinking before speaking ability, as well as apparent sincerity.
Professor Aiyede said for any political party to promote youths’ interest in politics, it must adopt a holistic youth strategy, adopt policies for youth that are based on reliable research, evidence and data, and run academies and training programmes for young members and candidates.
Others who spoke at the event including the and Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on Federal Constituency Matters, Hon. Dare Adeleke; Member, Oyo State House of Assembly, representing Ibadan North East Constituency 1, Hon. Abiodun Babalola and Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke in their goodwill messages challenged the participants to make their presence more known at the grassroots.
They also admonished the youths to make use of their skills and youthful energy to make remarkable impacts and achievements in life.
Speaking at the second session of the summit, Chairman and CEO Ilaji Hotel and Resort, Chief Dotun Sanusi who shared memories of his life journey to become a successful business man, said his determination to become problem solver made him to surmount challenges.
Chief Sanusi advised the participants to be strategic, determined and visionary
Reacting, the convener, House Of Representatives Member representing Ibadan North East South East Federal constituency, Hon Abass Adigun Agboworin highlighted sincerity, funding, strong determination and destiny as major factors necessary for anyone to climb the ladder of political leadership in Nigeria