Political leaders, policymakers and emerging political actors from across Oyo State have gathered in Ibadan for the 2026 Oyo State Emerging Political Leaders Summit, with calls for greater unity, reconciliation and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The two-day summit, held on Monday, August 24, and Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Ibadan Civic Centre in Agodi GRA, was themed “Bridging the Gap, Uniting Political Strength, and Mobilizing Emerging Leaders for 2027.”
Convened by Hon. Wale Ajani, the summit provided a platform for political stakeholders to discuss internal reconciliation, strengthen political alliances and develop strategies for effective grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Participants took part in panel discussions, networking sessions and tactical workshops focused on strengthening party cohesion and expanding political support across Oyo State.
Prominent figures at the summit included Alhaja Tawa Alli, wife of the Oyo State APC governorship candidate; Hon. Olalekan Glory, Oyo State APC Youth Leader; and Dr. Zacch A. Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, who was represented by Mr Abdul-Lateef AbdulRahman.
Speaking with journalists at the event, former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Ashimiyu Alarape, urged emerging political actors to build their leadership capacity and avoid desperation in their pursuit of political positions.
Alarape stressed the importance of continuous self-education and preparation, advising young politicians to remain patient while developing the skills required to take advantage of political opportunities when they arise.
Also speaking, APC Youth Leader, Olalekan Glory, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to youth inclusion and support for young candidates.
Glory rejected the portrayal of young people as mere instruments of political violence, urging them to reject such stereotypes and take active and constructive roles in the political development of Oyo State.
The summit concluded on Tuesday with a walk involving political leaders, policymakers and emerging political voices in a demonstration of unity, civic participation and shared commitment ahead of the 2027 elections.
The walk also formed part of the 50 Below 50 Campaign, which advocates greater inclusion of young people in government, leadership and decision-making.
Alhaja Tawa Alli participated in the walk alongside other political stakeholders, while the event’s convener, Wale Ajani, also joined participants in promoting unity and strategic political engagement.
The summit ended with renewed calls for stronger collaboration among emerging political leaders and greater youth participation in governance ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.