Some Lagos youths have declared support for the endorsement of Deputy Governor, Kadiri Hamzat, for the 2027 gubernatorial race.

The youth under the Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat Youth Ambassador (KOHYA) announced the endorsement during the unveiling of youth ambassadors across 377 wards in Lagos on Saturday.

Mr Ibrahim Adigun, the convener, said KOHYA had been launched as a structured grassroots movement of politically engaged youths committed to shaping governance in Lagos State.

He said the initiative marked a shift from passive observation to active participation, with youths becoming organised, informed and politically engaged stakeholders.

Mr Adigun added that the platform operates as a civic and advocacy movement built on evidence, accountability and deliberate engagement rather than party affiliation.

 “KOHYA is structured across 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs with ward coordinators and media teams,” he said, describing it as a coordinated statewide force.

 He added that a key mandate is to endorse Mr Hamzat for the 2027 Lagos governorship election.

 Mr Adigun said the endorsement was based on Hamzat’s record in digital transformation, infrastructure development, national service and political maturity.

He stressed the decision was grounded in verifiable achievements rather than emotional or political pressure.

The group also declared support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu, citing youth inclusion, growth of the digital economy, and economic reforms.

It expressed confidence in policy continuity as a pathway to long-term development while acknowledging existing national challenges.

Mr Adigun outlined plans including leadership mobilisation, grassroots engagement, digital advocacy and community outreach across Lagos State.

He urged youths to actively participate in governance, saying KOHYA seeks to convert youth energy into real political influence.

 Earlier, Mr Quadri Odewunmi, president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lagos State chapter, said Hamzat had contributed significantly to technology and youth development in the state.

In response, Mr Hamzat, represented by Mr Femi Michael, APC leader in Apapa, expressed gratitude to the youths for their support, describing it as highly significant.

According to him, youth constitute the largest population and must be included in decision-making processes that affect governance.

 “Hamzat is passionate about Lagos development and not self-interest driven,” he said.

 Ms Itunuoluwa Soniregun, KOHYA ambassador, called for stronger youth inclusion in governance, stressing that young people must be carried along in all decisions. 

(NAN)