The Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Hon. Adebowale Adebayo Falana, has congratulated Mr. Tijani Afeez Adigun, popularly known as “Omo Leader,” on his emergence as the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) chairmanship candidate for Oriire Local Government in the forthcoming local government election.
Falana described Tijani’s emergence as a significant milestone and a recognition of his years of grassroots engagement, youth mobilisation and commitment to community development across Oriire Local Government and Oyo State.
According to him, Tijani’s political journey, which has seen him participate in different political platforms, reflects his resilience, dedication and sustained engagement with the grassroots. He recalled that Omo Leader was previously associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), later joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Mulikat Adeola, and subsequently returned to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Falana noted that Tijani had also played an active role in grassroots mobilisation during the political activities that preceded the emergence of Governor Seyi Makinde in 2019, describing his latest political opportunity as a reflection of the value placed on commitment and grassroots participation.
He congratulated Tijani for his contributions to youth advocacy and development, urging him to see his emergence not only as a political achievement but also as a greater responsibility to the people of Oriire.
Falana particularly commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for what he described as his support for youth participation and the creation of opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to governance and leadership.
He said the emergence of Tijani as the APM chairmanship candidate for Oriire demonstrated the importance of recognising capable grassroots actors and providing them with opportunities to serve.
The youth development agency chairman also acknowledged the role of Otunba Adeseye Famojuro, popularly known as JAF, in supporting youth participation and encouraging young people to demonstrate their leadership potential.
Falana described Famojuro as a strong advocate of youth inclusion, noting that his support for Tijani’s candidature further underscored the importance of creating space for emerging leaders in the political process.
According to Falana, “This is another testament to the fact that you believe so much in our current leadership and the future we are building together. You said it without stress, and today, Omo Leader has emerged as the chairmanship candidate of Oriire Local Government under the APM.
“We sincerely appreciate your confidence, support and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of our young people. Your encouragement continues to demonstrate that there is a place for young and capable Nigerians in leadership.”
Falana urged Tijani to justify the confidence reposed in him by the party, stakeholders and the people of Oriire by prioritising inclusive leadership, grassroots development, youth empowerment and responsive representation.
He further expressed optimism that Tijani’s emergence would inspire more young people across Oyo State to participate actively and responsibly in politics and public service.
The chairman assured that opportunities for youth participation in governance and leadership would continue to expand, stressing that the future of Oyo State depends largely on empowering young people with the skills, platforms and opportunities required to contribute to its development.
