Olusegun Adeyemo
In this exclusive interview with The Journal Nigeria, Honourable Adewumi Adeyemi, representing Obokun State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, shared his views on youth involvement in politics, national transformation, and systemic reform.
Why do you believe youth involvement in politics is crucial for Nigeria’s future?
Youths are the engine room of any society. They represent energy, innovation, adaptability, and vision. In Nigeria, young people make up a large portion of the population, yet many remain on the sidelines of governance. Until they take active roles—by joining political parties, contesting for office, or mobilising their communities—we won’t see the full breadth of change our nation needs.
The current system requires fresh ideas and courageous leadership. It is the youth, with their unique strength and perspective, who can truly drive transformative change across our political and economic institutions.
You’ve called for young people to stop being passive observers. What exactly do you mean?
Being a passive observer means sitting back and expecting others to fix the nation’s problems while you remain uninvolved. It’s not enough to complain on social media or follow political news casually. We must go beyond that.
I challenge young Nigerians to take ownership of their future—engage with governance, understand policies, and participate actively. We must move from passive reaction to active transformation. The era of watching others dictate our collective destiny should be over.
What role does political consciousness play in national development?
Political consciousness is the foundation of civic responsibility. Without it, we remain blind to how power works and how it shapes our daily lives. Unfortunately, many young people are unaware of political happenings or how governance structures function.
If you don’t know your representatives, the laws being passed, or the details of government budgets, you can’t hold anyone accountable. A politically conscious society is a powerful society.
You often talk about transforming personal problems into visions. Can you explain that?
We are surrounded by problems—lack of electricity, poor education, insecurity, unemployment. Instead of only complaining, I urge the youth to turn these frustrations into visions.
If education moves you, ask: “How can I improve it in my community?” Then build ideas and strategies around that. When a personal frustration becomes your mission, you’ve already taken the first step toward change.
What is your view on the current political system and its effect on accountability?
Our system lacks full accountability. Even those who create the laws often do not obey them, which is dangerous. Laws must bind everyone equally, from ordinary citizens to lawmakers.
When leaders act above the law, they create a culture that encourages corruption and lawlessness. We must entrench the rule of law and ensure that every leader is held to the same standards as the people they serve. Without that, real progress will remain elusive.
How can young people prepare themselves to lead effectively?
It begins with personal development. You cannot solve a problem that is bigger than you. Leadership requires building yourself spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and socially.
Read widely. Study leadership methods. Understand the needs of the people you want to serve. Leadership is not about titles—it’s about preparation and service. Nigeria doesn’t just need passionate youth; it needs prepared youth.
What changes do you want to see in how young Nigerians vote and choose leaders?
First, young people must believe their votes count. The mindset that elections are predetermined must end. Second, vote for leaders who understand their communities, who are committed to development, and who have proven competence.
We must stop voting based on sentiment, tribe, or short-term benefits. Instead, we should vote based on vision, track record, and values.
You’ve said good intentions alone don’t make a great nation. Could you elaborate?
Good intentions are not enough. Many enter leadership with good hearts but lack the competence, structure, or vision to drive real change. Nation-building requires strategy, knowledge, commitment, and resilience.
A leader must know how to implement policies, manage resources, and inspire people. Good intentions must be backed by planning, learning, and action. That’s how nations rise.
What is your closing advice to Nigerian youth passionate about change?
Be stronger than the problem. Nigeria’s challenges—corruption, weak infrastructure, fragile institutions—are not excuses for inaction.
Build yourself. Engage with the system. Pick a problem and work to solve it. Above all, believe that change is possible. This country’s future depends on the choices we make today. Let your actions speak louder than your frustrations.